Commented on a discussion 8/24/2008 at 10:14 am
MysticalAngel - I am an aging specialist. Sometimes when an elderly person has surgery, dementia develops. Most of the time the dementia was already starting and the person gets very good at covering
...Read MoreMysticalAngel - I am an aging specialist. Sometimes when an elderly person has surgery, dementia develops. Most of the time the dementia was already starting and the person gets very good at covering up, especially if you don't know what to look for in symptoms. Your Grandmother's change in personality needs to be addressed by her doctor right away. The suicidal tendencies have to be taken VERY seriously. The doctor will probably prescribe anti-depressants, which sometimes work wonders in the elderly. Don't personalize anything she says. It is very obvious that this is a physical problem. It could also be caused by side effects from medications. Talk to the doctor.
For everyone who is dealing with lack of involvement from family members - I had to be very specific to my sibblings on what I needed them to do to help my mom, because if I did not push the issue they would just assume I was doing everything and went on with their lives.When I needed respite time or had to work or whatever, I would ask them if they could stay with Mom from noon to 4pm on Sat.,for example, so I could do what I needed to do. I asked my Aunt, cousins, nieces , brother and sister. Sometimes they would complain but eventually would help out. Sometimes I would have to get split shift help. My Aunt and cousin would take my mom for a few days to a week once in a while and I cannot tell you how much that helped!! Get the family to commit to a few hours a week, whenever they have time just to get some personal time. Also, my Mom qualified for respite care a few hours a week. I had a caregiver come in to change her sheets and clean her room real good and give her a shower. That was great! Contact her insurance company to see if she has coverage in this area. Contact the Dept of Aging in your county for a list of resources. As Mom's emphysema progressed I put her on Hospice and they offer caregivers, nurse visits, even counselors and social workers come to see her.
Hope that helps!
Gina