How can I tell if my husband has early dementia or just depression?
In the past year he's had 3 strokes, 3 seizures, has type 1 diabetes and hyper tension. He has memory problems and doesn't think clearly as he used to. I'm afraid for him to be on the checkbook???????
He may be suffering from vascular dementia which can happen after a stroke. Only a doctor can sort this out for you. Depression may be a part of it. Depression after strokes is common. Talk with his doctor about getting him tested for all of it. Good luck. This has to be hard on you? Carol
Hi Cat~I would have your husband evaluated by a neurologist-to get an idea what he may be going thrrough-and handle matters from there. If you are not able to speak with the neurologist with your husband present-either email him in advance, or bring in notes to give him---but I would make an appointment sooner rather than later-as early prevention may be key.
As for the situation with the checkbook, I would make a trip to your financial institution and ask them what you can do to protect your husband-they may have some options for you.
An additional site you could check out, as you are dealing with a spouce is: the alzheimer's spouce-----I am not sure if there is a message board there, but you may get some tips-or you send an wmail to the person who runs it.
You seem to be in a good forum as of now, and many good tips will be going out your way. Go for all the support you can....
Bobcat: Follow the advise above and have your mom evaluated by a neurologist who specializes in alz. Her doctor should be able to make a referral for you. This could also be depression, but dementia is certainly possible, especially at her age and after a loss of a sibling. You are doing all the right things, not leaving her alone and getting the POA. You also should get a health care directive that gives you the right to act on her behalf if she is incapacitated or unable to speak for herself. Keep us posted and good luck.
http://helpguide.org/mental/depression_elderly.htm Depression Clues in Older Adults Older adults who deny feeling sad or depressed may still have major depression. Here are the clues to look for: * Unexplained or aggravated aches and pains * Hopelessness * Helplessness * Anxiety and worries * Memory problems * Loss of feeling of pleasure * Slowed movement * Irritability * Lack of interest in personal care (skipping meals, forgetting medications, neglecting personal hygiene)
Adapted from American Academy of Family Physicians
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Carol
As for the situation with the checkbook, I would make a trip to your financial institution and ask them what you can do to protect your husband-they may have some options for you.
An additional site you could check out, as you are dealing with a spouce is: the alzheimer's spouce-----I am not sure if there is a message board there, but you may get some tips-or you send an wmail to the person who runs it.
You seem to be in a good forum as of now, and many good tips will be going out your way. Go for all the support you can....
Good luck on your caregiving journey.
Hap
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http://helpguide.org/mental/depression_elderly.htm
Depression Clues in Older Adults
Older adults who deny feeling sad or depressed may still have major depression. Here are the clues to look for:
* Unexplained or aggravated aches and pains
* Hopelessness
* Helplessness
* Anxiety and worries
* Memory problems
* Loss of feeling of pleasure
* Slowed movement
* Irritability
* Lack of interest in personal care (skipping meals, forgetting medications, neglecting personal hygiene)
Adapted from American Academy of Family Physicians
http://www.health.com/health/condition-article/0,,20188947,00.html
http://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/depression/is-it-dementia-or-depression.aspx