My mother behaves as if she's helpless whenever she is with my sister and I. Cant stay awake, slurs her words, can hardly walk, forgetful and complains constantly. She then receives a phone call from her girlfriend and low and behold she no longer is slurring her words, she is happy, laughing, and planning her next music outing. Even tells her she is having a great time with her daughters. We were on a 4 day camping trip which she did not participate in anything, only came out of RV to eat twice Yes my mother still drives, attends music events were she sings and plays guitar, and has a social life. If we make a comment about her complaints and unwillingness to do anything for herself she becomes defensive and angry. Mind you I spend a lot of time with my mom without my sister as I live around the corner from her, and she does not behave this way when her and I are together. This is a new situation for us and unsure how to respond to this behavior, She does have a treated mental illness. I am so upset with her acting this way that I'm having a hard time being around her but can't leave this all on my sister.....HELP.... I posted this in the wrong place the 1st time. New to this forum and posted under someone else's question, all feedback appreciated.
As the body ages, meds that have always worked may not any longer. What level of care does she need, that you would be leaving "s ll this" on your sister.
I think it's a good idea to discuss an change in mental status with her doctor. From what you describe, I would suspect that your mom could have early dementia. The symptoms can be vague at first. Sometimes they don't make much sense and can't be attributed to any particular strategy or purpose, but eventually, the symptoms increase and become more apparent.
It could be something related to her bi-polar condition or some other mental issue. Or it could be something within your family dynamics that only she can understand.
I have a some experience with what you are saying. My dad is 78 and when I have accompanied him to the doctor for minor issues, he is fine as can be, but when they call his name out, he grabs the wall for support as if he is having trouble walking as he goes to the exam area! lol I just ignore it. I have no idea why he does it. I think it's for attention, but it doesn't bother me.
And my mom, who's 75 can be complaining about how tired and sick she is and she can barely hold her head up, but the grandkids come in and she hops up and starts cooking a meal and is fine as can be! lol Go figure.