Any thoughts?

[elleng]

I'd like to understand the dementia variations; as time goes on and mom does physical exercises, and we all cooperate, her mind seems strong (we'll see; day to day) and her body slightly stronger.

Her inability to walk, and now use arms and hands, came very suddenly. Need to understand; hope to visit doctor soon.

[Warpy]

1. Getting to a doctor is essential, do so ASAP.

I can think of several physical causes, none of them good. She might also be very depressed, so cover that base, too.

Watch her breathing very carefully. Call an ambulance at once if it becomes shallow or labored.

[elleng]

2. THANKS, Warpy,

will do. Please explain.

She sees physical therapist 3X week, and has improved regularly (her first complete week.) Watching them, I suggested therapist remind mom to breathe. Real problem with hearing and comprehension; mom VERY hard of hearing, hearing aids bla bla bla. SO, so much going on during therapy a problem but therapist VERY good, and will note the issue.

BUT this evening, after dinner, helping her get into bed, she said she was dizzy, so I said 'breathe,' dad who is impatient (and somewhat hard of hearing) kept up with the bed work, I said stop, mom, breathe, which she did, and said that helped, smiling! (Her mind functions most of the time, delightful to see her humor!) SO, wassup?

Dad saw their doc today (for himself; at 94, he's in great shape; blood press etc, and yesterday, psi # great!) SO, about Mom, doc said her recent symptoms among those not well understood re: dementia, but rather common; he did mention parkinsons. SO, taking her to doc next week.

Thanks again.