What does it mean when my husband (83) starts to do these little irritating things?

No, the counting just recently started. It doesn't bother me, just puzzling to me. He is ok. Just naps alot. He's not on any extra meds. We went on a trip to see his kids and I think it wore him out. I am taking the hints given here. It helps to have people like you guys. You have been there and done that, and now I don't feel like I'm in the unknown so much.

Fancicoffee7, that tiredness could be a side effect of his medication, such as blood pressure pills.

I know when I first went on blood pressure pills, wham I could barely stay awake.... my cardiologist adjusted the pills so I am not quite as tired.

Fanci, I am a closet counter. I often count things as I'm doing them, e.g. turns of the pedals when I'm riding, tiles on a floor. Fortunately, I don't count everything. That would drive me nuts. I wondered if your hubby was a closet counter who has lost his filter, so it's showing up. What he is doing sounds like something I would do in my mind if I wasn't occupied.

I have found humor in it instead of letting it get to me. Now, I am trying to be lighter about some things and include him in on it and it makes it easier for him. But, once in awhile, it is something that catches me off guard. I have noticed him sleeping more, and he says he is just tired. I think it might be a lack of iron or something in the blood. Or his age. He has doctors keeping a very close watch on him and his kidneys, heart, and overall health.

Fancicoffe7, I know what you mean about making a mountain out of a molehill. I tend to do that with my parents regarding some of the things they are doing, or not doing. I know I need to try to step back and just watch.

I think some of us also tend to overthink things. I tend to do that. See if you can find some humor in some of things he does.

I am new to this dementia thing, and alzheimer thing. However, I have noticed my husband counts very insignificant things, naps alot, and he is still aware when something isn't right. Two days ago, he got up in the morning and he looked like he hadn't slept in days! But, he is ok today, just still tired. I like this board, but sometimes the little things he does is so irritating. They just show no common sense and just not right. Sometimes I think I am making a mt. out of a molehill.

Fancicoffee7, you are back! Yes, this is his dementia continuing to progress. Give him things to count. Buttons, nuts and bolts, whatever makes him happy. And you deserve a day off, too. Hope you get one.

As Vegaslady had said, the "counting" is OCD.

I have some OCD, my therapist said if the OCD isn't causing major disruptions to my life, then don't worry about it.

My dad with ALZ is really ocd these days. However his is about keeping things clean. He wants to wipe the whole bathroom counter down after he brushes his teeth, is always wiping down the kitchen counters, etc, I think this is normal as ALZ progresses

Talk to his doctor about his OCD actions.