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my dad in his early 70's has started shaving all the time, when he is going out somewhere he will shave twice within hours but denies doing this. He seems to constantly rub his chin looking for stubble then will go the bathroom and shave - he has never done this before, the hard part is that he denies doing this but we have found razors hidden in different places around the house and he gets very defensive if you mention anything to him. In all other ways he seems ok a little forgetful but nothing major. Is this change in behavior normal?

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In the mean time, get Dad an electric shaver. It will be safer than using razor blades. It would be easier for him to use.

If this is a bit of OCD, I wouldn't worry about it as this is quite minor.
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So true. Experienced doctors who regularly treat seniors and dementia patients, know how to approach sensitive issues without being confrontational or making the patient feel defensive. They come from a very friendly and compassion place where they show their concern with compassion and helpful advice. I have found that with the compassionate and friendly support, the patient comes out feeling good about the experience and that the doctor is on their side. (Regardless of what the doctor has diagnosed or prescribed.)
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I don't think this is a normal part of aging. Only a battery of tests and consulting your dad's Dr. will determine if it's dementia but the fact that your dad is hiding his razors all over the house sounds like this is an obsession for him and like JeanneGibbs said, obsessions can be seen in Alzheimer's.

He definately needs to see his Dr. Sending a note to the Dr. is a great idea and I'd like to suggest that you write on the note that the Dr. NOT come in and sit down and say, "So! You're shaving 5 times a day, huh??" I've sent notes to Dr.'s before and have had this happen and it just ruins everything.
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I agree about it possibly be an early warning sign that something is going on, but, it could just be a compulsion. While you may not notice other symptoms now, you could later. I'd consider that he may deny the shaving, because he has forgotten that he did it. And you may be finding razors all around, because he may forget that he hid them.

Regardless, confronting him or trying to convince him to do otherwise, may likely be futile. I'd certainly discuss it with his doctor though. Does his primary doctor see many seniors and dementia patients? Those who do and who regularly treat them, have more insight into behaviors that can be early symptoms.
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Well, this is not a "normal" part of aging. Has he been obsessed with other matters over the years?

Whether it is dementia is much harder to say. Some kinds of dementia do involve obsessive compulsive behavior, but alone it is not enough to make a guess.

I suggest a thorough check-up by his PCP. Don't tell him it is because of the shaving -- it is just time to get a baseline established while he is well. Send a note to the doctor mentioning the shaving.
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