My husband was tested for dementia but no diagnosis was made. However it looks like it must be age related mental health because I can see changes in his function that are very significant. I heard him have a conversation with me as I woke from sleep he answered himself and came to a conclusion without me saying a word. He is paranoid, suspicious a lot of the time and doesn’t understand what I say to him unless I explain in many times. He is verbally abusive to me and has been for five years which was when I first noticed the changes.
Yes, there have been behavioral changes, too. I’ve learned to look for the triggers and try to reduce those. Usually he reacts when he feels anxious or tired and overwhelmed. Keeping a quiet home environment has helped a lot as well as anti anxiety medication. A diagnosis isn’t always necessary to make these changes.
To me it is neither here nor there. If he is abusive, and ESPECIALLY if you suspect he is deteriorating in health, NOW is the time to split. Make your plan. Or you will be stuck.