My mother has had ALzheimers/dementia for approx 6 years and has been in a Nursing Home for 4 years. She was doing well and came to think of it as her little home as she had her own room to herself. But all of a sudden she started having falls (4 in two months) and was hospitalized twice now. While in the hospital she started having delusions at late evening. I thought she had gone back to sun downing but her doctor said as they progress dementia patients get delusional when they are confused or in different atmospheres then what they are used to. Has anyone had this experience with an Alzheimers/Dementia patient. What stage does this occur in?
Meanwhile, the dementia itself is progressing, so it is hard to predict whether your mom will return to her pre-hospital baseline or show the further decline permanently.
I understand how much we'd all like a roadmap as to where our loved ones are on this journey. Such insight is very seldom available. Taking one day at a time, and being aware of changes, is usually our best option.
My Dad is currently in the hospital with bronchitis, he's 95, and he usually has sundowning, but now in the hospital it is like he is sundowning all day long. Dad thinks he is in a hotel, asking for his credit card to pay the bill. When ask his birthday, he gets the month and date correct but the birth year he says 1821. No big deal, he's 95, he has a lot in his memory bank and it's hard to get the files opened on time. Today he said he has to leave for a doctor's appointment, he was happy when I told him that the doctor will come to see him.
My Dad is a fall risk, he seems to be tumbling more so now. He will fall out of his recliner if he bends down to tie his shoe. Most of his other falls were just minor scrapes and bruises. Any head injuries, the facility calls 911. Dad is suppose to use his pendant if he needs help going to the restroom, but he feels he doesn't want to bother any one.... [sigh].... he still wants to feel independent, and you can't blame him.