Not sure what's going on, but I'll take it!

Andi C

My DH was diagnosed a few months ago. Like everyone else, it really brought me down. He was doing the shuffling walk, forgeting everything he used to know and do, eating and sleeping habits changed drastically and we could barely carry on a conversation.

In the past week and a half, there has been a real turn around. Believe me, I'm not complaning! We actually have conversations, he doesn't just sit in a chair watching TV, naps are less, and he even offers to help with some easy household chores.

Is this something I can expect? To see ups and downs? I'm hoping that we stay at the point we are at, at least for a while, but fear that one day I'll wake up to the previous behaviors.

Jeff H

If you DH is seeing a neurologist, I would ask them for advice. If you don't have a neurologist, you may want to find one in your area.

Andi C

We have an appointment with his neurologist soon, it's definitely in my notes to discuss. Thank you.

Jeff H

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/269873#Comment_269873

That's great! His doctor should be able to help you.

Iris L.

A shuffling walk could be a sign of normal pressure hydrocephalus. I'm not sure if symptoms fluctuate. You might ask the neurologist about this.

Iris

Michele P

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/75761/not-sure-whats-going-on-but-ill-take-it

You definitely want to see a neurologist. Bring notes on behaviors and symptoms. I think bloodwork would not be a bad idea to rule out any deficiencies or infections as well.

JulietteBee

I would strongly suggest you discuss the improvements with your PCP as well.

Symptoms of Dementia can be brought on by deficiencies from Thiamine and B12, to name a few. Once the deficiency is rectified, the symptoms resolve. What an amazing thing it would be if your hubby is in that group. 🙏🏽

He needs comprehensive lab testing.

Andi C

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/270123#Comment_270123

Funny that you say that! His blood work showed a very low B12 so he's been taking 1000 MCG a day, you're right, it would be wonderful if that made this difference. He still forgets a lot, still needs guidance and help with things like the TV remote, finances and such, but just having conversations with him really make my day. Thanks for bringing that up!

JulietteBee

@Andi C, you are most welcome.

I know what a difference it makes, simply being able to communicate with him.

I do wish you all the best! 🫂

harshedbuzz

@Andi C

Sometimes a PWD has more than one thing impacting their cognition.

My dad had Wernicke-Korsakoff's which is related to poor absorption of B1 (Thiamine), once treated and with lifestyle changes, he improved considerably. But the mid-stage Alzheimer's was still there so he wasn't able to return to a pre-dementia baseline. The difference though was remarkable.

Whatever is going on, enjoy it.
HB