Expert: Michalene Peticca - 5/31/2008

Question
I have an older friend who will go into a long blank stare during a conversation with her.  She's over 65 and still plays golf, but doesn't report her scores accurately.  She's not cheating, I believe she's reporting scores she had when she was younger.  Something isn't right.  She's verbally aggressive sometimes, rude, only a few people will play golf with her anymore.  What comes to mind is some kind of dementia, but when I look up dementia on line I can't find any mention of long, blank stares.

Answer
Hello Robin,

thank you for writing.   Yes, indeed, "blank stares" are common in Dementia disorders.  Most "early stage" individuals will relate that they have moments of complete "nothingness", they have no thoughts, almost like suspended time.   I can only imagine it must be something like driving down a road and your daydreaming and you "wake up" to wonder how you were able to drive the last mile or two.   We've all had that sensation; however, usually we are thinking something else at the same time and "auto pilot" takes over for us.

Challenges with math and behavior changes are very common as "early stage" transitions as well with Dementia.  Unfortunately, some of the "rudeness" may be occuring because she is realizing herself something is not right and is getting very frustrated.  

You might want to suggest to her nicely that she see her Dr. to discuss some of her "frustrations" you've noticed during her golf game and see if her Dr. can help her.   Or, if she has family close by...i would certainly mention these things to them.   

Someone in the early stages of Dementia can be helped tremendously by Namenda or Aricept medication.   It won't cure the disease, but it can certainly slow its' progression and she might enjoy her golf outings alittle more.  

You may find information about "blank stares" on websites related to Parkinson's disease....on type of dementia disease.  

Thanks for being a concerned friend!

Best Regards,

Michalene Peticca, M.A.