How can we tell if my father in law has Alzheimer's or if he's just lonely?
Telling the difference between Alzheimer's (AD) and loneliness can be a tough task for families. It does seem like a guessing game especially if his behavior varies from day to day. Although signs of depression can certainly mimic some of the hallmarks of AD, there are major differences. Primarily, if Bob is lonely and is feeling depressed, appropriate medication can be offered to help him get through the difficult time and to help change his forgetfulness and 'hallucinations' while making him more easily able to adjust to life alone. On the other hand, there is no drug that can make an AD person better, although once the diagnosis of AD is confirmed, there are medications that may help improve some of the symptoms. If your father-in-law remains reluctant to see a physician and/or to have a good workup, I would encourage you to be in contact with the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) in OR (503-945-5921) or the Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116) to find a professional to come to Bob's home while you are with him. Introduce the person as 'a friend' of yours to allay any fear or suspicion that Bob may have of someone he does not recognize. Many AAAs have people trained specifically to assess the elder person living alone who is having signs of dementia or a dementing process such as Alzheimer's and to help guide family members in what should happen next. This website, caring.com, has a wonderful pamphlet titled "Is It Alzheimer's?" which can help you check off the symptoms he may or may not have.
On the other hand, there is no drug that can make an AD person better, although once the diagnosis of AD is confirmed, there are medications that may help improve some of the symptoms.
If your father-in-law remains reluctant to see a physician and/or to have a good workup, I would encourage you to be in contact with the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) in OR (503-945-5921) or the Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116) to find a professional to come to Bob's home while you are with him. Introduce the person as 'a friend' of yours to allay any fear or suspicion that Bob may have of someone he does not recognize. Many AAAs have people trained specifically to assess the elder person living alone who is having signs of dementia or a dementing process such as Alzheimer's and to help guide family members in what should happen next. This website, caring.com, has a wonderful pamphlet titled "Is It Alzheimer's?" which can help you check off the symptoms he may or may not have.
The sooner you find out why Bob is 'losing it fast', the quicker you can find solutions to dealing with whatever is causing the loss. I'm sure it is devastating to you and your husband and particularly for Bob himself.
Do take care of you.
Recommended for you
- How do I help my mother cope with my father's death?
- How can we help my mother who is struggling with loneliness in the assisted living facility?
- Managing Hallucinations and Delusions, Suspiciousness, and Paranoia in Someone With Alzheimer's Disease
- Best Local Resources for Alzheimer's Support
- Best Organizations for Alzheimer's Support
- See all 134 questions about Common Behaviors and Problems
