Another Step in the Progression

Sunnyside42 · June 16

My DH is 86 and was diagnosed with Alzheimers in August 2021. He remains gentle, with a sense of humor, and in good physical shape for his age. He still volunteers at a community garden which he has done for 17 years. His fellow volunteers know him well, are protective and caring, so I know he is safe while there. The physical work of planting and harvesting is very healthy, plus the social aspect. Of course, later in the day he doesn’t remember that he was there in the morning. So we live Zen-like, in the moment.

Today there was a new element to his behavior. He called me into the bathroom after a bowel movement. He wanted to show it to me. I am not sure what he wanted me to do with it, but was annoyed when I flushed the toilet. He asked me why I did that and I said I thought he wanted me to flush it. This is a new kind of behavior for him. He does a lot of perseverating when we are going on an errand or to the doctor/dentist etc. and does not remember 5 minutes ago. But I guess I was taken aback this morning when this happened. I feel we are entering a new level.

Also, he talks sometimes without making sense. Have heard this called word salad. But usually he can communicate sensibly, so it is like we go twixt and tween.

It is so difficult to plan, not knowing the progression of this disease as it relates to him. I try to take one day at a time, not to project and worry. I guess what happened today surprised me because it was a first.

Jgirl57 · June 16

I think you are correct ; another step in disease progression. Perhaps your DH forgot he had a bowel movement and didn’t recognize it as such. It is hard how sometimes communication is ok and then word salad happens. We are going through this as well. The community garden sounds like a great place!

jsps139_ · June 16

I love that he still goes to the community garden at 86 yrs old! That is fantastic!
We are dealing with the same - DH is able to carry on a sensible conversation, then later his words are all jumbled up. But, when he is making up a story in great detail with no truth at all to it, he has no trouble speaking perfectly. Just strange.

M1 · June 16

Very glad he has the garden and the associated community. What a nice memory to hold onto, i hope you have pictures-one of the very few things my partner can still enjoy is a small conservatory at our MC. We've made it our project to tend to the plants, and with regular watering and feeding they are thriving. I’ve caught a couple of snaps that warm my heart, will see if I can attach.

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