To suggest a relative has dementia

[SmallVill]

My elderly uncle has been showing some changes in his behaviour. He doesn’t really want to go out anymore, for example to have meals out or just a coffee. My aunt also complains that quite often she asks him to do something and then he will not have done it. He has always been super calm but now and then now he get’s a bit agitated. Also slightly inappropriate sexual behaviour not seen before.

His wife just thinks his hearing is bad and not really my place given family dynamics to suggest maybe check for dementia.

My main question is what are the differences in quality of life if diagnosed earlier rather than later?

AIBU is, yes you are if you push for diagnoses.

With dementia the earlier you make changes to routines that will in the end make their life manageable, the better. For example if the take various meds you can start using a dementia friendly dossit box so they get used to it now and don't get confused later on.

This is how my dad started with Alzheimer’s, I’m sorry. What’s his memory like? This is how we started on the treatment path, a GP appointment then referral to a memory nurse, then CT head scan.

in time medication subdued the agitation and inappropriate comments, but obviously youre delaying the inevitable. Sounds like aunt is in denial. If you can encourage a GP appointment I think it’s worth it.

@TimeForATerf i don’t have first hand experience re memory but apparently needs a shopping list even for just a few items.

I disagree with this actually. My mother had a diagnosis and it made absolutely no difference. Her GP didn't prescribe anything and there was no help.

(Speaking from experience with my DH) Sounds like he definitely needs a memory clinic appointment which needs to come from a GP referral. In our area there is a 6-8 month wait so do it now! He will also be referred for a head CT scan as the poster above has said. This is to differentiate between Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. (My DH has vascular dementia). Once diagnosed there is a lot of support and information available to help, but the sooner you do it the better. Once diagnosed you can put in place all sorts of actions to make life easier such as adjustments to their home etc. It’s a tough journey and I wish you luck.