I just joined AgingCare today and I can use some advice on our next steps.
I'm joining my brother in caring for my mother. I live in Arkansas and my mother and brother both live in Alabama.
In the past few months my mother (84 years old) is showing signs of paranoia and bouts of psychotic behavior of people/neighbors trying to kill her. And it's really over the top - her attackers are using lazers and electronics to watch her every move. Real Sci-Fi stuff.
We've (my brother and I) have just started to address the issue. So far, neither of us have a POA. We may have to get a conservatorship.
We will be communicating with doctors, attorneys, and caregivers over the next several weeks. This is a new reality.
Thanks in advance.
Joe
The first year is tough. It does get easier as certain tasks get put to bed and other tasks go on autopilot. It's a new reality, indeed, but it doesn't have to mean an end to life as you know it. It's just tough for a while. I wish you and your brother luck.
My mother is very headstrong, independent, and determined. She will not respond lightly to someone making decisions on her behalf. She is less likely to be honest and open with me for fear of being judged. Me being the oldest of three may have something to do with it. My sister, the middle child, pasted away from illness almost 9 years ago.
My brother and I are planning to connect with my Mother's doctor. The doctor is already aware of some issues.
She has called the police a couple of times on the lazer-armed neighbor claiming they were going to kill her. We'll look into getting the police reports to see if they indicate a person in mental distress.
This condition has only been evident within the past year - year and a half. Other than this paranoid psychosis, she is quite sharp. Of course there are the forgetful moments of "I can't think of the right word" events most of us over 50/60 experience.
The UTI suggestion is something I will definitely inquire about. It was something depicted in a recent TV show. If I recall my mother is prone to have UTIs. In addition, she is already on the brain-booster supplements you guys mentioned.
I'll post back as things progress.
Does someone live in the area? I understand you do not.
I grew up in the Ozarks. Welcome to the Forum. Keep us posted.
The first thing you should know is that Urinary Tract Infections in elders can cause psychiatric symptoms.
The second thing you should know is that a sudden change in mental status is a medical emergency and warrants a call to 911 if the person may be at risk for harmful behavior. EMTs are generally well trained in dealing with this.
Have you or your brother had a conversation with mom's physician about this?
Sorry to hear your troubles with your Mother.
Reaching out to people, for professional advice, practical help or just a social chat is a very good start.
If she is in immediate danger, professional immediate help will be needed (calling EMS for pysch eval).
If less immediate but of high concern, a thorough medical checkup is sensible. That may depend on her temperament (meek as a mouse, stubborn as a mule, or mad as a cut snake?) & how persuasive your boots-on-the-ground brother is to get her to her Doctor's.