My mother who has younger onset alzheimers is always on the go. In some ways it is good because she is positive and motivated and keen to get out and be social , but during the sundowning period from aout 4pm she STILL wants to " get going" and won't wind down or relax.
She walks in and out of rooms in the house telling me to hurry up because everyone is waiting and we need to get going. She loves being in the car, so sometimes when this is happening I will take her to the supermarket but as soon as we are out of the car she starts saying " come on we need to get home".
So it is almost like she is NEVER satisfied with where she is and needs to keep going somewhere.
She also pulls all the sheets off her bed during this time too. if I remake the bed she just pulls it all apart 10 minutes later.
It is very tiring. It only stops once she has had a bath and in bed.
She isn't being aggressive or hallucinating..it is just annoying and I wish there was a way to take the anxious 'edge' off so she could relax.
She does sleep well through the night thank fully.
She has been on zoloft for many years and The doctor has now also prescribed Risperdal for the sundowning, which I haven't tried yet as.
I have read some bad reviews and I'm very cautious to give her anything that may trigger more of a progression of the dementia.
Has anyone had any experience with this drug?
Anyone else have a similar restless alzheimers loved one on another drug that has helped?
Thanks in advance.
I'm not sure that this doctor is the right person if he doesn't take your concerns seriously and explain the potential risks as well as potential benefits, so perhaps you should see if there's a doctor who's a better fit?
Yes, you know the disease is progressive and you don't need to be put down about your concerns. It's about mutual respect.
Kalma belongs to a group of medicines called benzodiazepines which also can have serious side effects. However, you're going to have to find something that helps or live with things as they are. So, it's all trial and error and risk taking.
In the doctor's defense, there isn't anything that is guaranteed to work without side effects so it's scary. I know because my the loved one that I currently care for is on many powerful medications and they all have side effects. Sometimes we end up treating side effects with more drugs. So, it's always a balance - which is worse? Letting the symptoms be or trying to treat them knowing the risks?
I completely understand your fears. That's why finding a doctor who understands your fears but who can give you straight answers is good. If this doctor isn't too insulting, then stay put. If not, see if you can find one who is more about working together for the sake of your mom.
Please keep us posted!
Carol
This doctor is a geriatrician who deals with dementia in elderly.
We initially tried herbs a couple of years ago with a different doctor( mums local GP) brahmi tone / high dose b12 etc, but these dodnt help with su downing.
The GP also gave me a script for Kalma for my mother but I never filled that script either.
What are your thoughts on Kalma?
Maybe kalma would be safer to try ?
I know you have to try these things but I am just so worried that it might be the straw that breaks the camels back so to speak.
Thanks
Ativan or other anti-anxiety drugs can also be used but they also have down sides so working with the doctor is what is necessary.
I wish we had more doctors trained in integrative medicine because there are herbs that may help but you really should have professional advice before using them with someone on anti-depressants so you're likely stuck with regular pharmaceutical options.
Much comes down to your trust in the doctor. If he or she will listen to you if you see negative side effects, maybe Risperdol is worth a try.
Good luck with this decision and please keep us posted.
Carol