Well, we found out the hard way last week that simple infections can have a terrible psychological effect on the elderly. This is apparently especially true for seniors given to dementia.
Poor Dad went down a very rocky road for a few days, becoming paranoid about everyone around him and seeing danger in once-familiar people and things. Apparently the infection prevents his meds from working the way they should. Happily a good round of antibiotics brought things back to “new normal” in a few days.
But Dad remembered his quixotic battles with those around him and was sure his next stop was going to be the hoosgow. He felt tremendous shame and remorse. He even wanted to know if I’d gotten him a lawyer. Imagine his overwhelming relief at learning no one was pressing charges. He didn’t quite understand why they weren’t, but he didn't much care.
Believing prevention is worth a pound of cure, I hope to have him tested more regularly from now on, so things don’t have to go so far before they get fixed next time. Live and learn.
Poor Dad went down a very rocky road for a few days, becoming paranoid about everyone around him and seeing danger in once-familiar people and things. Apparently the infection prevents his meds from working the way they should. Happily a good round of antibiotics brought things back to “new normal” in a few days.
But Dad remembered his quixotic battles with those around him and was sure his next stop was going to be the hoosgow. He felt tremendous shame and remorse. He even wanted to know if I’d gotten him a lawyer. Imagine his overwhelming relief at learning no one was pressing charges. He didn’t quite understand why they weren’t, but he didn't much care.
Believing prevention is worth a pound of cure, I hope to have him tested more regularly from now on, so things don’t have to go so far before they get fixed next time. Live and learn.
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