at times he can recall even very unimportant things. he doesnt even remember why he went out, and comes back after 2 -3 hours wondering why he went out.he is diabetic on insulin, hypertensive, asthmatic. but he looks healthy
2007-09-15 21:25:07 · 10 answers · asked by jenny 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
You need to get mom or some adult to take him to a doctor now.
WHY?
Well if he's insulin is fluctuating a lot, that will definately affect memory. I am diabetic, not on insulin, but I've seen the affects that insulin when not managed well can have on people, especially memory. It may also be his hypertension. Both can affect memory when they are not controlled well.
If you are an adult then find a way to get him into his doctor right now.
Diabetics are at a greater risk for Early Onset Alzhimers as well. His wondering for two to three hours, forgetting even your name is coming in Alzhimers, even remembering at times is a symptom.
There are many new drugs to treat it as well; so getting him in to his doctor and even into a Neurologist or a doctor who specializes in Alzhimers could be the difference between many more good years and going down heal quickly.
Really, get him into a doctor this coming week if you can; call his doctor if you have to and tell them your concerns and if you are an adult child, they should help you get him in to see them. If not, you really need any adult who can help to help you, Mom, other adult family members, older siblings.
He needs to be evaluated now. It may be something that can be fixed and at the least, the sooner it's diagnosed, the more likely it can be managed better and possibly helped with medications they now have that seem to be delaying the progress of Alzhimers.
Please take care of yourself as well.
2007-09-15 22:16:38 · answer #1 · answered by Mountain Bear 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Medication takes a toll on the body. After 15 years on mental illness drugs the mind is reduced to not much more than the medulla and only the basic functions are still operating. Old age reduces the upper brain lobes in functioning too but it is only happening slowly. The best brain comes from active lives where thought is required for work and conversation. If life is too comfortable the brain cant stay very sharp. Some old folks keep very alert by running other people's lives.
2007-09-16 06:49:58 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have GOT to get him to a doctor. It's possible his insulin is out of control, or the hypertension might have led to vascular dementia, or he might just not be processing vitamin B and need some shots, or he may have Alzheimer's. People on Yahoo can't diagnose your dad, but a doctor can, and there may be medication to help him if you get him help immediately!
2007-09-16 04:31:37 · answer #3 · answered by Katherine W 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Agreed with Katherine. He could have an issue with his insulin dosage, could be suffering from dementia or alzheimers. Getting him to a doctor to be assessed is the way to go here. And definitely agreed on the other point, try to make sure someone is always with him.
2007-09-16 04:36:56 · answer #4 · answered by njvoigt 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Possible Alzheimer's: see memory improvement, and Alzheimer's, at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris on pages 29, and 41. Tell him to write notes about what he wants, and keep them in his pocket: some people need to have cards with their names and addresses in laminated plastic around their neck. A checklist with things like keys, and wallet; lock doors, etc. may be helpful, if placed by the external door.
2007-09-16 04:38:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have your father go to the GP asap!!!!.
Only a GP can give a proper diagnosis. Get him to one ASAP
Hypertension can cause memory loss or confusion. Uncontrolled diabetes could do the same.
If he is getting older it may be the onset of alziemers disease or Dementia.
2007-09-16 06:37:26 · answer #6 · answered by nic 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am in this exact same situation with both of my parents. It is so hard. I hope you have brothers and sisters who are helping you. Learn all you can, it is helping me know what to worry about and what to let go. Talk with doctors, research, use friends as resources in finding answers. Good luck
2007-09-16 11:53:12 · answer #7 · answered by replexgirl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like dementia to me. Talk to his doctor about this. In the meantime, make sure there is always someone with him if you can.
2007-09-16 04:29:43 · answer #8 · answered by Paramedic Girl 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
make sure he sees the doctor, go with him and tell the doctor you are concerned with his memory problems.
he could have alzhiemer's or he might be having signs of a mini stroke. do not delay.
2007-09-16 04:35:51 · answer #9 · answered by Marycozzens 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Alzheimer's or Huntington's. he needs to see a doctor about this.
2007-09-16 04:42:32 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋