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FIL has type 2 diabetes. He has been taking aricept for the last 6 months. He does have a hard time following through on bill paying and understanding his house is in foreclosure( still thinks he can sell it and make money) , falls for scams, and has no idea how he got into the financial mess he is in. He is in NH due to a fall but has lots of other issues. He definitely does not have alz( MIL has that) . Just curious as to why the aricept when he still is struggling with understanding and decision making- consequences.

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People who have diabetes are at increased risk for vascular dementia, metabolic dementia, and Alzheimer's. I understand what you mean when you say your FIL doesn't seem like the typical dementia. My mother with diabetes doesn't fit the typical profile, either. Hers is more like a cross between mental illness and moderate dementia. I've never known what to call it, so I just say dementia.

Aricept or any other medication is for symptoms only. For some people it may help with cognitive function. For others it is not helpful. Even if it helps, it won't slow the progression of dementia. Aricept is said to be helpful to some in early stages. Namenda is recommended for later stages. It may help some people, but also does not slow progression of disease.
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Dear Sorrynotsorry,

Sorry to hear how your FIL is struggling. It is a lot to take on at his age given his diabetes. It could more than the diabetes contributing to his mental decline. He could also have high blood pressure, cholesterol, side effects of other medications and possible vascular dementia as well. It sure isn't easy. If there is someone he trusts to manage the bills and money, I would have that person take over those responsibilities. I did that for my dad for a long time even before he was diagnosed. I would check with the doctor and see if they can review his meds and his medical condition.
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Aricept, if prescribed early on, can slow the progression of the disease. If he is in a nursing home and from what you describe, he is NOT early on.
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