My mother-in-law is having trouble telling time. Is this the beginning of something bad?

Parkinson's can also include cognitive issues though it doesn't for everyone. I'd want a more clear idea of her diagnosis. She could have Parkinson's and also have a type of dementia that is just showing symptoms now. Your idea of telling those who are around her to be patient is wonderful. Please do that.

But also follow up on what is actually going on. Anything from a urinary tract infection to the medications she's taking could be causing these symptoms so she needs medical attention. Then, when you know what is going on you'll be more able to know what to expect.
Take care,
Carol

Thank you Carol...I will tell my husband to bring up her cognitive skills at their next Dr.s meeting. (I will find out when it is, and if nothing is planned, I will push for them to make an appt.) She has been to a lot of Dr.s and they cannot define what is wrong. To best describe, something in her brain does not communicate properly with her legs, and she has extreme difficulty walking. "They" say it is neurological. She is only 75, and up to three or so years ago, she was active, playing tennis, working out, etc. Her son (my husband) is unable/unwilling to deal with her on the level that she needs now, so I am trying to gather as much info I can in order to explain to him. With her mental capacities waning, he is getting frustrated, and she feels it. It is difficult, I know, as my Dad is 81, and has his issues, but Mom-in-Law seems to be declining at a faster rate. Thank you for your support!

Hi Demilly - I would push to have your MIL seen by a neurologist as soon as possible. It would have to start with her primary doc because he/she would need to make the referral, but your MIL's problems with mobility and "clouded" thinking sound very familiar. My MIL began showing similar symptoms five years ago. It took several doctor visits incl. two neurologists, and a number of tests

Sorry....accidentally pressed the submit button before I was done, oops! To continue....
Several tests before we managed to reach a diagnosis of "atypical Parkinsonism", which is an umbrella term for a number of more specific neurological disorders which all carry symptoms much like PD but are also in many ways different. Only a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders can make that determination. Have her seen by her PCP, do explore other possible explanations, but also insist on a referral to a qualified neurologist. IF something neurological is going on then the sooner it's caught the better. Good luck!