Might just want to keep using that machine...

[-tim]

I'm helping a friend who is confused and just arrived back from being overseas for a few years. He will be 65 next month and seems to have some memory issues. He has no idea what a toaster is, or what it does or why anyone would need it. At first I thought it might just be jet lag but I think there is more to it. I've been trying to get his pension forms sorted out as well as all sorts of other paperwork. The worst is the medical reports since he is completely healthy and has never had a problem ever according to him. So I guess the expired prescription for the nirto spray was a joke by the doctor.

He saw my mask and said he had one of those years ago. Before he had the heart operation. He said it was noisy. He doesn't have one anymore. I think it sleep study time for him again.
He is over weight and snores and falls asleep while waiting. I'm guessing its cpap time again.

He has problems with nouns. He has no idea what corn, peaches or eggs are but will ask "What is the purpose of this device?" I took him to an airport where he used to fly out of and he was convinced it had all changed. He asked the receptionist all the right questions about renting a plane after showing her his drivers license saying it was his pilots license. Some how I don't think he will be passing his medical this time around.

He thinks the dog wants to be petted with its ears back and its tail wagging like crazy. The problem is the dog is also hissing and has its claws out... and that cat wouldn't be impressed by being called a dog.

I'm not sure if his problem is depression or bad nutrition or isolation or age or mental degradation.

[JohnO]

Trying CPAP sounds like a good idea, but having dealt with some older relatives with similar problems recently, I'd also be concerned about medication levels or potassium levels, or, perhaps even a stroke.

[nanwilson]

He needs to be seen by a doctor NOW...and you need to take him if he doesn't have a close relative.
As you know we are not medical people and are only guessing at what his needs are. If his cognitive function is that bad, a doctor is the next logical step.
Good luck
Nan

[-tim]

He needs to be seen by a doctor NOW...and you need to take him if he doesn't have a close relative.
As you know we are not medical people and are only guessing at what his needs are. If his cognitive function is that bad, a doctor is the next logical step.
Good luck
Nan

He has an appointment with his former local doctor real soon now.

[mayondair]

I'm with Nan, what you describe is more than a mild cognitive problem, he needs a complete physical, and he probably doesn't need to be living alone or driving until he's been evaluated. . I speak from experience, having been down that road with my parents. You are a good friend to help out. kathy

[Sir NoddinOff]

Sounds like the early stages of Alzheimer's that my older sister went thru six years ago. Whether it's related to OSA or not is still an open question. However, I do know that my sister snored like crazy and sometimes complained she didn't sleep well; she was slim and active, tho. Anyway, she was a dental technician most of her life... so maybe mercury? She drank coffee by the gallon? She was into arts and crafts in a massive way, maybe chemicals there? It's all very complicated when you lift up one of the corners and peer inside. One can lose a lot of brain capacity by having a small stroke, that can mimic Alzheimer's.

[apsews]

I honestly would not wait on an appointment in the near future!! I would call and explain things to the doctors office and if they can't see him immediately I would take him to the ER. If it is a stroke,time is very crucial. If caught early,things can usually be reversed. That is just what I would do.....just saying

[archangle]

Be sure to google up "Stroke warning signs" and check them out. Both now, and especially if he has any kind of episode.

If you get the stroke warning signs, especially sudden onset, it's 911 call time.

[-tim]

He has been like this for years. His doctor didn't want to see him until he is over the jet lag. He was on a planes for about 24 hours with a few hour layover. He seems to be getting more focused as he managed to get to the bank twice and walked to the local shops without getting lost. I'm putting together bits a pieces of info to give to his doctor -- who I know.