97.5 year old with Dementia/AZ

evajohns

Hello, new to the group. My father's dementia started after a brain bleed at age 95. His other health is great for someone his age. He can walk, talk, feed himself and use bathroom on his own. Unfortunately, he experiences sun downers or agitation bordering on violent behavior almost every other day. He is still at home with my mother (79 years old). Does someone recommend any drug (we have tried some and my mother thinks it makes him worse) or non drug option? Thanks for your help.

H1235

Welcome. There are a lot of options out there. If the medication the doctor prescribed doesn’t work then he should try a different one or maybe change the dose. With these kinds of medications it can take over a week to take full effect. What works for one person with dementia may not work for another. Seroquel is mentioned often, but his doctor is really going to be the one to talk to. Do you attend doctors visits with your parents? At 79 your mom has a lot on her plate and might be a bit overwhelmed at appointments. Maybe it would be helpful to attend appointments with them if you’re not already.

Michele P

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/75215/97-5-year-old-with-dementia-az

Ask for a referral for a geriatric psychiatrist. They are well versed in medications for Alzheimer’s patients.

harshedbuzz

You need a geriatric psychiatrist ideally.

They're the specialists in prescribing psychoactive medications. What meds have you tried? Are they being prescribed on a continuous basis or "as needed". IME, "as needed" can lead to playing wack-a-mole with behavior as once the emotions the drive the symptomatic behavior flare, the meds will be less effective.

If dad becomes aggressive and risks harming mom or himself, you can call 911 and have him transported to the ER for a transfer to a geri psych for medication management.

HB