Dad's friend had altzheimers diagnosis and dad was joking how his memory is much worse. Family generally said maybe he should get checked out and he did, none of us including him expected him to have it.
He's just turned 69 and is currently just a little forgetful, as in why did I go upstairs and what was I just saying?
I wasn't at the appointment and dad's just saying it's fine, they've given him some meds abd he has tears ahead of him and hell cross the bridges as he comes to them. That seems a healthy attitude at this stage.
But mum (and to a lesser extent us kids) want to know what to expect in the next year or two. It's a distressing condition to read about and all the info seems to be aimed at a later stage where the person is at risk or needing carers.
Is there anywhere I can get info on how fast he's likely to deteriorate? Is 69 quite young and is that a good thing, does he have longer than I'm seeing online? Is there anything that can be done to slow progression?
I know it'll be case by case but is he likely to go from slightly forgetful to serious life impact in a year or two? He had so many plans for his retirement and we need to figure out how to get them in while he still can.
Thank you.
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Dementia and Alzheimer's
How fast will this progress? What to expect in the early stages?
HangingOnJustAbout · 14/03/2024 18:08
supercalafragilisticexpealidocious · 15/03/2024 11:37
One thing I have learnt since my dad's diagnosis is that you can't dictate how someone wants to approach their diagnosis and what steps they want to take. PP suggested you do lots of talking and planning. My dad doesn't want that. We have done the POA and he is in touch with a dementia nurse but other than that he does not want to discuss end of life plans or have deep and meaningful conversations. My natural reaction to his diagnosis was to try to plan and also to try and find solutions to slow decline eg through diet and supplements. My dad doesn't want that. I suggested I go with my dad to his appointments. He doesn't want that. He wants to feel autonomous and independent for as long as possible. So my advice is also to treat your dad with as much respect as a grown adult as possible and be led by his wishes.
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