Patients are totally incontinent. Eventually, patients are unable to speak, get out of bed or feed themselves. They become susceptible to malnutrition, infections, pneumonia and other illnesses. Depression may have the appearance of early Alzheimer's and goes hand in hand with dementia in about 20 percent of all cases. Frustrated by the symptoms of dementia, the person become depressed, and the depression then worsens the symptoms.
Symptoms vary widely but often include disorientation, inattentiveness and changes in personality.
It is often eversible,but must be treated immediately. Antidepressants, heart medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, sleeping pills, ulcer medications, insulin and cold medications can all cause confusion, agitation and other symptoms. Your parent's doctor should be aware of all drugs that he takes, including nonprescription ones. While prolonged, heavy use of alcohol can cause permanent brain damage and dementia, even moderate drinking can worsen confusion, agitation and depression. Vision and hearing impairments.