My FIL is having sleep issues and today for the 1st time was confused as to the day it is; time for concern?

Diabetics are known for being at risk for three different types of dementia -- metabolic, vascular, and Alzheimer's. Since he has vascular problems, it would not be surprising if he has some trouble with vascular dementia. So it may be what you are seeing. But it could be other things. Have his doctor check his blood chemistry and A1C to see how hiw general health is. Diabetics are also prone to UTIs, so it is a good thing to check.

I forget what day it is sometimes, but usually don't have to be reminded twice. That does tell you that something could be going on. I wish you could get him to take off some of the weight and become more active to get his circulation going better. I know there is only so much you can do, though.

beretta68, there are days when I wake up and forget what day it is, it's all part of aging.

With the elders they nap so much that when they wake up from the nap they think they had slept in their recliner over-night. It's not a big deal for someone who is retired and depends on others to take them to doctor appointments, etc. But too much napping will make it hard to sleep at night. I know it is hard to keep an elder busy during the afternoons.

There is a item that is similar to a clock but it has the days of the week on it instead. I heard it is good to have for those who do tend to forget what day it is. I plan to get one for my Dad.

I agree with Writervicki who posted above, anti-histamines do work as long as they are the drowsy type. I use a half of one at night to fall to sleep. But ask your Dad's doctor first before buying as some could interfere with other meds.

Has anyone suggested Melatonin? It's worked wonders for my mom.

My mother has dementia so her memory issues are obvious. Just recently she seemed quite a bit worse and it turned out that she was severely dehydrated. We now remind her to drink her water. After her trip to the ER to be rehydrated she is much more alert. More like her old self -but still with problems

I have some advice on the sleep issue. My Mom had Alzheimer's and trouble getting to sleep. The doctor recommended a Sudafed or any anti-histamine before bed. It's non-addictive but it helped her get to sleep.

It's very hard to say. With all these health issues it could be any number of issues but forgetting what day it is, is very common for dementia. He should be checked out by his doc. Could also be a UTI.