[kathlou]

Advice needed. My father is an alcoholic but the last year his mental health has really suffered. It started with forgetfulness but now it’s repetitive and forgets where he is, quite often looks confused. Quiet, withdrawn and personal hygiene is neglected. My mum is concerned and now a friend has expressed concerns. The problem is he ignores all advice about going to the GP and when he speaks to the GP he’s dishonest about his symptons. I was discussing with my mum to make contact with the GP & ask to review for dementia, as the alcohol could be masking something more serious or its most probably alcohol related either way he needs help.

[lindyloo]

Hi Kathlou, welcome to the forum, so many people here with loved ones who have addictions.

I usually post about my son who has alcohol and cocaine addictions.

Your story resonates with me, as I had an elderly relative who lived alone who we cared for and I noticed same problems as you with your dad.

She was also getting forgetful and kept repeating herself. I took her to doc who referred her for brain ct scan. It was vascular dementia.

I noticed she was sleeping late, house in darkness, withdrawing from us a bit, personal hygiene, just sat in front of TV all day.

That’s when I realised she was drinking large amounts of gin ‘to help her sleep ‘ but it became an out of control habit.

Went to doc again said detox required or she would shorten her life as she was getting through 1-3 litres a week drinking it almost undiluted!

She got detox at home over a few weeks with another relative staying with her.

We got power of attorney when dementia was diagnosed, so she couldn’t protest much thankfully.

I attended all medical appointments with her so that I could paint a true picture of what was really happening.

She stopped drinking after that, but her physical health was affected and lost confidence going out after a few falls.

It’s difficult as they can be stubborn but when they have dementia they don’t realise the severity of addiction.

I know adfam homepage offer advice and support also Icarus trust posts here too.

I wish you all the best and hope you both get the support you need.

Lx

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