I think she’s been moved to her room, which must be close to my mom’s room because I can still hear her screaming. I live out of state and haven’t been here in 3 weeks. I’ve never heard this person before, so I’m assuming she’s a new resident. I asked my mother if she hears her and she said she does. This has been going on for hours today. How do I approach the director about the situation or should I? I’m sure there are lots of issues with dementia patients that are a challenge. I’m just worried about my mom listening to this for hours at a time. She’s bedridden and can’t get away from the screaming and yelling.
yiu know:: location location location. Get her closer to you so you can have more hands on and eyes on her…
I have mentioned many times that finding the appropriate drug and dosage can take time so I am not one to say that medicating someone should not be done.
If I gave that impression in my response that was not my intention
I’ve heard the same thing about barking dogs. After driving the neighbors mad for hours, they stop when they hear the owner’s car turn into the driveway, so the owner thinks the complaints are totally exaggerated.
Sometimes quietly, sometimes loud and sometimes VERY loud.
Sometimes it bothered me a little, sometimes it bothered me a LOT.
Some people yell, some moan, some say "help me", some "I want to go home", some are quiet, some cry.
Sure it can be stopped but at what cost. Sedating people so that they are "quiet" is not right.
Some can be redirected.
Have you thought to say HI to this woman?
It is possible that this is her way of communicating with you and your mom.
Possibly put on some quiet music for you mom that would be a filter for the yelling. Or the TV. (although with some of the TV during the day I might prefer yelling..or I would join in)
I would STILL speak with the admin on Monday about how dreadfully disturbing this is for you loved one AND for you. That you UNDERSTAND, BUT...................
That may help.
Eventually, don't you know, as much a disturbance as this is it cannot go on. Family and doctors will be contacts and the attempt at some drug cocktail that can keep this poor one from being so frightened and disturbed without turning her to stone will be tried. As well as you are upset you can imagine how distraught all patients, visiting families and staff are. These things happen. They are dreadfully heartbreakingly disturbing. And they pass.
Again, do call the admin. That will help push this forward.