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Hope that helps,
JudyView Thread

Hope your managing OK,
JudyView Thread

Has your Dad been checked for an infection or dehydration? If his symptoms suddenly worsened, it's often a sign of an additional medical problem.
A medication review is recommended by me as well as the timing of the medications. Also, is there a certain time of day or situation which aggravates his behavior? If someone notes when and where the agitation occurs, and who is there when it happens, you may be able to change the situation or timing so that he is less aggressive.
Aroma therapy with lemon or lavender scents also is relaxing.
Studies show that the most common reason for aggression among those with these illnesses is the inability to communicate what they are experiencing. Soothing music, lower noise can all help. I have other suggestions in my book.
Hope you both get some relief,
JudyView Thread

The older I get, the faster time flies by! Spring is in the air, and it's a good time for you and your loved one to share the outdoors together. Studies show that being around trees relaxes the brain so enjoy!
Keep up the good work,
JudyView Thread

You are wise to check out the risks about surgery. Does your Mom have a health care directive? She sounds 'with it' enough in the moment to be involved in the decision-making process so that she can express her feelings.
You could ask her if she wants to know what's going on with herself health-wise. You could review with her the risks of her memory getting worse versus the impact of not doing anything. It still is her body, and her life.
Knowing your Mom, what do you think she would want?
There are no clear-cut answers here, that's for sure,
JudyView Thread

It's hard to deal with this level of deterioration. The Alzheimer's Ass. at www.alz.org has a download detailing the stages of the disease. You may also call 800-272-3900 for the hand-out.
In my experience, it sounds like the disease has progressed into the late stages. I hope your girlfriend has help with her Mom; the local Alzheimer's Assn. may be able to give her some direction. It may be time to consider residential placement - there are some good facilities that accept medicaid as payment. They are skilled at taking care of these issues, which may permit your girlfriend to focus on how to find ways to relate to her Mom without the exhaustion of taking care of her physical needs.
Hope you guys get some relief,
JudyView Thread

Glad that you are safe and that the two of you can laugh together.
There are medications that may help ease the tremors. A neurologist has the experience with Parkinson's and Lewy body symptoms and would know if medication would help. Another resource is a hospital or university memory center nearby.
Happy that you are keeping us posted,
JudyView Thread

What a hard situation and strain on you, both physically and emotionally. Is your Dad diabetic and is it being controlled? With dementia, it's unlikely you'll make much of a dent regarding better nutrition since he sounds like he wasn't responding to that before it started. Low fat and sugar substitutes might help.
Meanwhile, I hope you have some assistance in performing his routine daily hygiene because you need to protect yourself from undue physical damage.
Take care of yourself,
JudyView Thread

Frequently, Lewy body dementia involves vivid hallucinations which may be what's happening to your husband, especially in the middle of the night. Memory issues develop later in the illness. It's important to consult with a neurologist who is familiar with this disease to determine whether he would benefit from additional treatments.
Meanwhile, please take steps to keep yourself safe - perhaps even sleeping in a separate room.
Hope you get some relief,
JudyView Thread

Hope you've been able to arrange for hospice for your aunt. Her symptoms sound like the late stages of Alzheimer's, with 7 years about the average length of the disease. Her swallowing difficulties need to be addressed with a change of diet; the medical personnel should advise you.
Studies report that the inability to eat after food consistency has been adjusted is actually a way people let go, and that it is a relatively painless process.
You've been so attentive to her and she is lucky to have you on her team.
JudyView Thread
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