Follow
Share
Read More
This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Good Morning,

I agree with FreqFlyer...has your mother been checked and "re-checked" for a UTI. They can mimic these symptoms and an elderly person cannot fight it off on their own--antibiotics, plenty of water and a shot of cranberry juice on a daily basis.

Also, at the onslaught of Lewy Body Dementia hallucinations, can be commonplace, unless there is a history of psychiatric issues.

Oftentimes, the right medications (Abilify, Citalopram low dose) can assist and get the serotonin to the brain. Your mother is only in her 70's. Does she live alone in a house or apartment?

Isolation is no good for anyone, unwell or not. Fresh air, walking speaking and interacting with people on a daily basis--Church involvement, volunteer work if able-- all of these things make up a balanced life. The computer and Netflix, CNN and a cat is not enough.

You are aware that things cannot continue on the way they are. What about the stove, unlocked doors at night or if mother sneaks out without a winter coat on.

Our loved ones need to be supervised, protected, fed and kept warm. You are only in your 30's but of course you love your mother but you are thinking how am I going to do all of this.

A hospital Social Work and a one-hour free consultation with an Elder Attorney. You know your mother best. Don't rule out Lewy Body Dementia--one day they are fine, the next a different person, the symptoms fluctuate.

Music also calms the elderly...
Helpful Answer (4)
Report

If your mother has dementia and becomes psychotic, there are no good or right answers. Don't blame yourself for her situation.

As Polar suggests, the next time she is hospitalized, go immediately to Discharge Planning and tell them that she a vulnerable who lives alone and that you are unable to provide care for her.

Do NOT sign her discharge papers or provide transportation. Make them find placement for her.
Helpful Answer (14)
Report

Anxious - you are not equipped to care for your mother's serious mental illness. You know that and said so yourself: "I'm overwhelmed and I feel like running away from the situation and I don't have the strength to be her caregiver..."

You don't have to walk away, but you need to scale way back. Only help as much as your mental and physical health allows. Don't expect other family members to help or visit her. They are probably very ill equipped to deal with her and want to steer clear.

It seems to me your mom should be in a lockdown institution so she can not wander. It would be very bad if she got lost and could not be found in time. Several years ago, a dementia person in my city got lost during the winter time. It was so cold, she hid in a public bathroom to keep warm. By the time people found her, she was dead. Very sad for her and her family.

The next time your mom ends up in the hospital, you talk to a Social Worker there and explain your mom's condition and that she wanders and can no longer live alone. Ask the SW to help place your mom in a home. Tell them (and stay firm) that you are not able to take care of your mom.
Helpful Answer (19)
Report

AnxiousFear, when was the last time that your Mom was tested for an Urinary Tract Infection [UTI]? For some reason doctors tend to over look this. An UTI can mimic dementia issues, and cause all types of unusual behavior, in an older person.

The test for an UTI is fairly simple. It can be tested at your Mom's primary doctor's office or even urgent care. If it comes back positive, antibiotics can help control it.
Helpful Answer (11)
Report

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter