My dad has parkinson's & dementia and gets angry, he wont take his tablets or cooperate. what can we do when he gets like this?

Use a patch!: Pts with dementia do exhibit behavior changes, and are a challenge. But the Exelon (rivastigmine) patch is indicated for parkinsonian dementia, and goes onto the skin, and works transdermally, and obviates the need for a pill for the behavior. Since one effect is to reduce aggression and hallucinations, perhaps you can get control of the rest of his needs.

Dificult problem: A regular routine is important. Perhaps his meds could be given crushed in applesauce or yogurt-check with your pharmacist. Try to divert his attention when he gets in such a mood. There is an excellent book available called "the 36 hour day" that is a helpful guide for caregivers of patients with dementia.

Difficult situation: This sounds like a very difficult situation that periodically gets worse. It can be hard to take care of a demented family member. He cannot tell you specifically what he's distressed about, and may be misperceiving also. Contact his physician about this; your dad needs to be seen for increasing confusion & combativeness. Could be many possible medical issues trying to speak & need investigation.

Evaluate : Agitation and anger can be common in certain stages of dementia. Review of medications and medical status to rule out some problem or change is important is such cases. A change in terms of anger control can signify disinhibition and increased involvement of frontal lobes or subcortical areas, but even more commonly can manifest as an equivalent of derpession. Geropsychiatry and neurology help.

Dementia: First you need to determine the severity of his dementia. Sounds you getting to be in the advanced phase. The next step is a neuropsychological test will help determine the severity of impairment . This will also help the family buddy our attorney and a guardianship. Early medication management new treatment that dissolve rapidly under the tongue may slow down the disease and contain behavior.

Support & Porridge: A health or clinical psychologist, psychiatric social worker, or psychiatric nurse knowledgeable about dementia who can help come up w/ behavior management plan could make a big difference in your lives. It also might help u all 2find a family support group &/or 2get involved in search 4 cure: a wonderful search-4-cure group is "porridge for parkinson's" http://www.Porridgeforparkinsons.Com.

See a specialist: Here are many variables that need to be assessed and evaluated in this type of situation. You can start with your dads neurologist or primary care provider. A geriatric psychiatrist would also be a good resource. Hiring a case manager may also help. There are specific techniques and possibly medication adjustments that may help.