ALZHEIMER'S BLOGGING: ALZHEIMERSBLOGGING:

I got called to a nursing faculty to get a 76 yr old female who is very confused, agitated, hostility and hallucinations. The report I received from the nurse is that she has been at the nursing home for a month and has been confused the whole time. But today she has been very agitated, and she thinks they are out to get her. She actually called the police telling them that they were killing people and hiding the bodies. First thing I wanted to do is see what kinds of medications she was on.

She is on xanax which is described for anxiety and panic disorders which is caused by depression. Please pay attention to what the doctor is putting your loved one on. Look it up and read about any medication they are on. This one states to let the doctor know if you have asthma, bronchitis or copd. Glaucoma. Kidney or liver disease. History of depression or suicidal thoughts. Than read the side effects: Unusual risk taking behavior. Depressed mood. Agitation, hostility, hallucinations. Fainting, seizures, muscle twitching.

This little lady was getting this medication four times a day, with a history of asthma and copd. Although she was very nice to me, she was agitated, scared for her life, and seeing things.

Please pay attention to what medication they are on and keep a journal on how they behave before and after taking the medication. Also very important see how many of these anxiety drugs they are on. This little lady was on three different kinds. How will they react with each other. You can be saving a life and a huge hospital bill.

Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint Of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com