Have a relative that was very paranoid, forgetful, giving money to strangers, hearing voices and afraid to be alone because he thought people were out to get him his property and money also put numerous locks and security systems up. Was in a hospital for a month on treatment, pills and an injection for memory and hearing voices, for vascular dementia and psychosis. When he was released and came home but refused to take the medication prescribed and does seem better. He doesn't seem to have the paranoia and doesn't act like he is hearing voices and is staying in his home alone with no problems. What's happened to make him change? Could he be hiding what's really going on for fear of going into a home? I'm his guardian and conservator due to his behavior. he is very angry with me for putting him in the hospital for treatment and says nothing is wrong with him and thinks I am out to get his money. I'm baffled as to how someone could act as badly as he was and now seem fine.
Many medications for hallucinations and paranoia require a blood level before they begin to work well. Same for depression. Stopping these medications suddenly can have some dire results. And while the blood level of the drugs will work for a while without taking the drug, eventually the effect will wear off and it is likely back to square one.
And do understand that all dementias are a bit like a simon-says game in the beginning, going one or two steps forward and then one back. They have good days and bad days, especially in the beginning. Anxiety can often provoke bad episodes.
I am assuming this person was not visited by a sudden change that could have been stroke related? Because often stroke symptoms can leave within the first two weeks; strokes would be of sudden onset.
Good luck on your medical mystery tour. Update us if you find out anything.
He has vascular dementia. I guess that showed up in the cat scan he had.
Your information is very helpful. Thank you
Thank you
Just my opinion, but he probably should not be living alone. Is he being supervised by any agency or a social worker? If he is angry with you and accusing you of stealing from him, I would definitely limit my contact with him.
Thank you for your input.