Do people with dementia have real up and downs?

Can the AL staff give her sponge bath or wash ups at her sink in the morning? Maybe that would be less daunting to her. Lots can be done with just a washcloth.

A friend of mine has alcohol dementia, including hallucinations and delirium and lashing out, and was in and out of physical rehabs where she couldn’t drink, then back home where she started at 8am. She was on an endless cycle until her health deteriorated to the point she went into a NH where they do not allow her any drinking, and she’s a different person. My opinion is somehow the alcohol needs to be curtailed if she’s to have a better quality of life.

The liquor store is very close. She is able to get alcohol on her own. she has been going there for 3 years so it is part of her routine I guess. Unless we take her credit card away how can we stop her from buying it. She is free to go where she wants. She does not drive but store is across the street. I think that others have mentioned the alcohol but she forgets quickly. She has been drinking wine for along time. I think maybe depression from being told she stinks maybe causing problems. she does not want others to help her bathe but is afraid to do it on her own. I have told her that I could help or at least be there when she showers but she said no. she does get home support 3x a day to give her, her meds.

I agree. If she has an addiction to alcohol and she is driving, sooner or later it’s gong to have tragic results. There is a resort-like AL near me that has an English-style pub, but the residents are strictly monitored.

I’d be speaking with the staff and get her help with her drinking. If she’s on any meds, she could have some significant side-effects. That could account for the ups and downs, too.

From my experience, a person with dementia may show symptoms at one time and later the symptoms seem not as great. Do you know what is causing your MIL's dementia? Alcohol related dementia is somewhat different from other types and I'm not very familiar with it. Maybe, others who are, will chime in.

If she has significant dementia, how is she leaving the facility to buy alcohol? I'd look into it. I know that the ALs that I have visited, the residents can drink alcohol if they wish, but, they have to get it for themselves. The staff don't provide it or deliver it to them. And presumably, a person with dementia would not be able to drive or walk to a store to get it.

I find it hard to believe that she can have easy access to alcohol in a AL facility. I would try to investigate that further. I believe alcohol will exacerbate any negative situation with an elderly person especially if it is not monitored.