History of dementia in family

mpang123

Both my parents have dementia and I have MCI. My psychiatrist put me on a low dose of lithium to help prevent possible dementia for myself. I am only 54.

Iris L.

Welcome mpang. I had never heard of prescribing lithium to prevent AD. But after a search, I found that there have been some studies that show a diminution in risk of dementia with lithium. If this is true, why aren't more doctors using it? I hope your doctor did extensive testing to rule out medical causes of memory loss. Caregiving itself is enough to impact cognition. How are you managing your parents? Do you have help?

Iris

mpang123

Hello Iris. I have MCI due to drug induced Parkinson's over 4 yrs ago. I've only started taking care of my parents with dementia starting this year when their symptoms got worse. Thankfully, they are stable now and I'm feeling more relieved.

Iris L.

That's good to know, mpang. I hope you continue to be able to take care of them and take care of yourself. Are you making plans for the future?

mpang123

Iris, dad is receiving palliative care and mom is stable. I see them 2 to 3 times a week and my nephew is beneficiary of my parents assets and I take care of their medical needs.

Amy Joy

Hi to everyone!

I have a history of dementia in my family.

My mom had dementia and older brother in nursing home and can’t remember me.

I was diagnosed with early onset dementia in my forties.

I’m in care of family member and likely in home someday