Very concerned about family member.

7 replies

Worriedso · 15/09/2023 16:14

A family member who is in their early 60s. I am becoming very concerned about them. They are becoming extremely forgetful, repeating things and getting mixed up with things, unsure what the day is or time and generally confused. They are not taking care of themselves, e.g unbrushed hair that is matted and tangled. We have helped them and it just keeps happening and I think they are forgetting to brush their hair or not wanting too but it’s in a real mess now. They live with their DH but he has a serious illness, he’s currently in hospital.

The family member is also wearing big thick winter coats and hats and scarves, all throughout winter. Several family members have made them appointment with the doctor but they are not attending and refusing any help with others. Very concerned. What would you think is happening and how can we get help when they do not want it?

OP posts:

Original poster

Worriedso · 15/09/2023 16:16

Sorry, that meant to say all throughout summer. Even on the hottest day of the year they had winter gear on

OP posts:

Dacadactyl · 15/09/2023 16:21

I would ring ageUK for advice.

I would also try and get them a social services assessment. Not sure if they'd have to consent to this though.

Foxymoxy68 · 15/09/2023 16:22

Watching with interest as we have concerns about a family member too but she is not engaging with us over it. Sorry I can't be of any help.

Inkyblue123 · 15/09/2023 16:27

Call social services and report a vulnerable person. If they are the primary cater for their partner they are putting that person at risk as well . It’s one thing to have self determination, it’s another to put other people at risk. Also check out rethinking Mental Illness. I’m so sorry you are going through this , it sucks.

fourplusfour · 15/09/2023 16:28

Whilst their GP might not talk to you directly due to confidentiality, you can email the surgery expressing your concerns. At least it will then be on record.

Inkyblue123 · 15/09/2023 16:29

https://www.rethink.org/

No matter how bad things are, we can help.

1 in 4 people will be affected by a mental health problem in their lifetime - we are here to support them when they do.

https://www.rethink.org/

BeautifulGnome · 15/09/2023 19:53

Call their GP, and tell them what you've said here. Tell them the relative will not attend the surgery. But you are concerned for their welfare. Ask if it's possible for them to send round a Dr or nurse to the house to assess.

Flip