First Post. I’m living with 2 challenging men.

So very grateful that you all share your stories. I’m learning all I can. I’m truly frightened for our future.
My DH, age 73 hasn’t been diagnosed with dementia yet. I suspect he’s in stage 3. Maybe 4? Of vascular dementia and ALZ.
His neurology report states ‘probable mild cognitive impairment’. Dr prescribed aricept and tells my DH he’s doing great. So my husband thinks it’s normal aging. I think there’s no harm in me letting him believe that? Yet he’s very illogical and makes poor decisions, so I constantly need to watch him. He’s been trying to pick fights with me, which is probably my greatest challenge currently. (He was never one to be confrontational) I’m summoning up all the patience I have. But overall, I think most people cannot see his decline yet.
While reading about the stages, it occurred to me that our shut in roommate, age 67 might have dementia. I originally thought he was mentally ill and depressed. But now I’m not sure.
Here’s the unbelievable part.
He moved in 2 years ago after having been evicted for not paying his rent, even tho he could well afford it. He claimed it was somehow being paid by someone he didn’t know. When he first arrived he claimed his sister killed his mother. A story he often repeats. This man has not left the house and has NOTHING delivered except pizza and soda.. He has no soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, etc. He’s been wearing the same robe since he moved in. Also in the 2 years he hasn’t done ANY laundry. He only leaves his room to get his pizza. He doesn’t seem to have any family or friends. If I evict him, I’m afraid he’ll be homeless. Might he have dementia?
Comments
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Yes, he might. Rather than evict him, can you contact a mental health/social service agency?
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You call the Alzheimer's Help Line and ask to speak to a Care Consultant for guidance.
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the roommate may qualify for an Adult Family Home. That way he would still be getting what he needs, and you would not have to worry about him.
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((HUGS))
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please take action to get the roommate removed to a place where he can be evaluated and get care. You should have an Agency for the Aged in your County. There is no way you can care for 2 people with dementia. The disease can progress quickly in some people so don’t wait. Also have a plan B for your husband in case you are unable to care for him. Make sure you have the legal paperwork in order. DPOA and medical POA. Again, don’t wait. Within a few months after my husbands diagnosis he could no longer read and understand documents or sign his name. If you haven’t done so, read the book “The 36 Hour Day” which will help you know how to handle your DH’s anxiety and agitation which causes him to pick fights with you. It’s the disease. He’s not doing it deliberately. Don’t argue with him. It won’t work. He can’t reason. His reasoner is broken. Sorry you are going through this. We’re here when you need info or to vent. 💜
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Commonly Used Abbreviations
DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
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