Dad has recently been having short episodes of total zoning out, breathing heavy, clammy hands and then fine. Any ideas?

what is the first step in using the full PPA?

PPA=Primary Progressive Aphasia. I would be on the phone to his Neurologist and report the symptoms. I would also go out and buy a BP wrist cuff and fingertip O2 sensor, plus a stethoscope to listen to heart and lungs. Even if you have to call 911, being able to read vitals is very important.

Low blood sugar?

sorry I don't know what PPA means.