Mum (moderate stage of Alzheimer’s), still in her own home with my younger brother as main live-in carer, was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in January 2012 – I attended an education session regarding diet and she was prescribed medication. By August last year, her weight had drastically decreased (she has gradually lost weight over the last 2-3 years anyway and was never overweight) and she was taken off the medication and told to eat what she wanted. As she doesn’t/can’t cater for herself any more, we could still maintain some control over what she ate and keep the diabetes in check.
My brother has reported that there are increasing incidences of bowel movements either in the early hours of the morning or at getting up time. Whilst these cannot be classed as diarrhoea and she isn't incontinent, they are sometimes very loose. Due to her dementia and “unlearning” personal skills, he frequently gets up to find a trail from bathroom back to the bedroom; soiled carpets, pyjamas and underwear, not to mention Mum herself. Having spoken to the GP, she suggested that he doesn’t give her any hot drinks at night that may contain a sweetening agent which can cause diarrhoea. The GP also suggested a commode. Mum will never, ever use one – apart from to store ornaments and clothing “ready to go home”.
Has anyone else experienced this type of problem and can suggest anything to help? Thanks.
My brother has reported that there are increasing incidences of bowel movements either in the early hours of the morning or at getting up time. Whilst these cannot be classed as diarrhoea and she isn't incontinent, they are sometimes very loose. Due to her dementia and “unlearning” personal skills, he frequently gets up to find a trail from bathroom back to the bedroom; soiled carpets, pyjamas and underwear, not to mention Mum herself. Having spoken to the GP, she suggested that he doesn’t give her any hot drinks at night that may contain a sweetening agent which can cause diarrhoea. The GP also suggested a commode. Mum will never, ever use one – apart from to store ornaments and clothing “ready to go home”.
Has anyone else experienced this type of problem and can suggest anything to help? Thanks.