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My elderly father repeats "ow" continuously. Sometimes very loudly. Sometimes it sounds like a question. He even does it in his sleep. When we ask him why he's saying "ow" he responds with "I don't know" or "I didn't know I was". I have asked him multiple times if he was in pain or if he needs anything and his response will be "no". I don't understand why he is doing this or how to make it stop. It makes sleeping at night rather difficult for the household. Has anybody else experienced this or have any answers?

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In googling it and looking at the Alzheimer's Association website, it sounds like it's not that uncommon. They said repeated word or phrases are an attempt to find comfort and to look at the feelings behind the word or phrase. So maybe try to reassure your father that he's ok and is loved and supported?

It's got to be super annoying - I get frustrated when my mom asks me the same question multiple times. Having your dad repeat the same word even in his sleep is pretty frustrating for everyone. I wonder if his doctor could give him something that would at least help him sleep without repeating the word. Hugs to you - it must be tough.
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It sounds like self-soothing behavior, maybe a result of some anxiety your dad's experiencing.

Talk to his Dr. Maybe a light anti-anxiety medication will curtail this verbal tic.
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Sounds like Tourette's. See the MD and have tests done.
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