My dad is 83 years old and was diagnosed with Alzheimers 2 years ago. Up to 3 months ago he was really well, living a very independant life. Following a fall and the knock to the head, a 10 day hospital admission and a diagnosis of early stages of cancer of the oesophagus, his symptoms of Alzheimers has deteriorated significantly. This week alone he has forgotten how to use the microwave and prepare his own food. Noticable increased confusion. He is on Rivastigmine patches and they don’t seem to be slowing down the symptoms. Is this sudden deterioration typical? We as a family are finding it very difficult accepting this rapid deterioration.