Expert: Paula Damgaard - 3/17/2010

Question
My husband has Alzheimer's.  I believe he is now in middle/late moderate stage.  It was very mild and only noticeable by me until he had two surgeries within two months.  First surgery was prostate.  Second surgery was below knee amputation of right foot.  His Alzheimer immediately was noticeable by all.  The surgeries were five years ago.  He has anger issues and is very impatient. He really hates needles and is not happy to go for testing.  His blood counts are low.  His creatinine is high and has some kidney problems.  I think the prep for the colonoscopy will be very difficult for him.  Do you think it would be beneficial to have the testing or would comfort care be a better choice.

Answer
Hi Carol,

First let me tell you there are medications available to help with his anger issues and you should look into those right away.  There is no need for the both of you to be miserable.  He wouldn't have to go for testing to get those.  Hopefully his doctor understands what you are going through and will help you.  If not I would find a new doctor, one who specializes in dementia care.

Second, why are you doing the colonoscopy?  Just because the doctor says it is time for one? or is there a problem?  If there is a problem, what will you do about it?   Say it was cancer - would you treat it?  

My philosophy has always been and always will be quality over quantity.  If he truly has AD then doing any of those kind of tests and then "fixing" any problems that are found as a result of them will only give him quantity of life.  His brain is going to continue to get worse and his quality of life will continue to go down.  So if you are asking me if I what I would chose the answer will always be comfort care.  

I hope this helps and I hope you get him some medicine to calm him down.  You deserve it.  Take care of yourself.  You are no good to him sick.  Let me know how you are doing. Paula