Geri-psych saga continues with hopeful news

clarinetist

For those if you following our story, after two weeks in a medical bed, my DH with aggression problems was transferred to the hospital’s Geri-psych unit on Monday. I was very pleased because this unit has a good reputation for not discharging patients until they are really ready.

I am finding out that my husband’s issue may not have an easy resolution. A week ago, he punched a very nice nurse while the nurses’s back was turned. Yesterday he again got aggressive but luckily no one was injured. When I visited him in the early evening he was still quite agitated, punching one fist into his other hand, which made for a nerve-wracking visit. He was already at the max for his as-needed med so they couldn’t give him more meds.

Today I spoke with the doctor on his unit, and she is going to wean him off his Risperidone and try Zyprexa, which will take about a week. I’m grateful that they have more meds to try with him, and hopeful that something can be found. But it’s also occurred to me that there might not be a magic drug for him, which makes me very sad on his behalf. I hope he can return to his wonderful memory care, but that may not be in the cards. The future isn’t bright for anyone with a dementia diagnosis, but might be particularly dim for him at this time.

Dio

I felt the same last year this time. But they did find the right combination of meds for my DH. Keep the faith. Sounds like he's in a good geri-psych unit.

clarinetist

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/217736#Comment_217736

Thank you, Dio. That’s very encouraging to hear!

Dio

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/217737#Comment_217737

If you search my posts, you will see the dosages and meds for my DH.

M1

Please do keep us posted, i know this is agonizing. Was wondering how you were, thanks for the update. Two weeks was a loong time to wait.

clarinetist

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/217750#Comment_217750

Thanks, M1!

housefinch

That must have felt like an eternity, and probably will again until he’s hopefully stabilized on a new regimen. What a road. Hang in there! You have done an amazing job.

SDianeL

my DH is on Risperidone and they added Depakote which made him sleep 24/7. They are now gradually reducing his meds. When I visited Wednesday he was more alert and talked a bit. He smiled and knew who I was. Hope they find the right meds. I know you are worried. Sending hugs.

clarinetist

Thank you, housefinch and Diane. Glad your husband is doing better, Diane. You all are giving me hope that there’s a medical solution.