Worried about mum

Creamegg

Hi, I’m in the UK but seeking help anywhere I can get it. My mum has started forgetting certain things. For example she moved a load of stuff to a seat in the house but then 30 mins later she swore blind she didn’t do it and it was already like that.

There have been 3 or 4 of these episodes on different things. She also repeats a lot and says the same stuff but she has done that for a while now.

I took her to the doctor this morning and he did a test on her, asking different questions, getting her to count back from 100 etc. she passed with flying colours. He doesn’t think there is any need to take things further and will retest her in six months.

I am convinced something is changing but don’t know what to do now?!

Anne

SusanB-dil

Hi Creamegg - welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason. 

It sounds like you are seeing things that the doctor may be missing because you are around her a lot more, of course.  Did doc test for other issues?  There are other things that can mimic dementia... Thyroid test, UTI, Depression, nutritional/vitamin deficiencies (especially vitamin , side effects from some medications, just to name a few.  Did he check blood levels for some of these things?  It may or may not be other things, but it gives you at least a starting point.

Creamegg

He has done bloods which are all normal and she doesn’t have a UTI.

SusanB-dil

That can be frustrating. I would start documenting things. Maybe a small journal or in a small pocket calendar, maybe.  So next time she goes, tell the doc what you see happening.

M1

Welcome to the forum Anne.  I would bet my bottom dollar that you are right--family nearly always notices first.  I think the suggestion about documenting what you see is exactly right.  Most people who develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia are unaware of their deficits and she may become defensive if you try to discuss it with her (look up anosognosia, that's the name for this phenomenon).  

Retesting in six months is probably the right thing to do.  This kind of issue is going to become more and more important, though, since the newer drugs are targeted to very early intervention.  Don't know what's available in the UK yet but it's becoming more of an issue here.

Good luck, you've come to a good place for advice and anticipatory support.  

Rick4407

Hello Creamegg.  This is a good place for support and information.  Generally the medical community is very hesitant to make an immediate diagnosis of dementia.  It is a long term terminal disease and is difficult and life changing for caregivers.  Susan-B & M1 offer good advice, just sort of keep track so you have specifics over a period of time.  There are no meds to treat this disease, in the later stages there are meds to try to control difficult behaviors.  

Reading here a lot will help you prepare if things progress.  You may want to be especially careful about watching your mothers finances.  Sometimes there are instances where considerable amounts of money are lost by the confusion in the elderly.  

Your medical system is an unknown to me.  Here we usually seek to see an neurologist or geriatric psychiatrist after the issues become more apparent. The initial test your Dr gave is a pretty normal starting point, a follow up in a few months to see if there is any progression is the next step. 

Good luck, Rick