Is progression of Alzheimer's typical and what to do about swallowing issues?
My wife was diagnosed in 2018 with having Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CCA). She was told in all probability this would advance into Alzheimer’s. She has experienced some signs of this for two or three years now. She began finding it difficult to find the right word she was trying to say. Other than that, no memory issues. However, when telling about recent events, she rambles on and on and the sequence of the event are out of order. This has become more noticeable recently. When given or giving driving directions, or what roads she was on, she gets frustrated in that she doesn’t remember the names of the streets. She has no problem with navigation when out driving alone. She is very aware of where she is and why. Throughout the day, she often asks the same question several times. She makes many written notes to herself as reminders for various things. All that being said, I am concerned about the progression and timeline of further issues. One that is of great concern is taking medications. She has extreme difficulty in swallowing her medications. No issues with swallowing food, just pills. Presently, she is able to manage by a meticulous method of adding crackers with her pills and water, but this often requires more than one attempt. She complains that her mouth and throat are so dry all the time is the cause. My concern is when the time comes she is no longer able to manage this on her own and I cannot convey to her the process. How on earth will I administer her medication?
Cwillie asks a good question.......why would you give her CRACKERS which are dry as a bone if she's having trouble swallowing pills? Not a good idea at all.
I have trouble swallowing pills too, so I take them with food. When I'm done chewing my food and ready to swallow, then I pop the pills into my mouth and they go down with the food with no problem.
If and when the time comes where your wife is no longer able to swallow because the disease is preventing her from doing so, then it's time to consider hospice. Before that time comes, however, you may want to look into Memory Care homes if/when she becomes too much to handle at home.
Wishing you the best of luck moving forward.