The past two days, my LO has had some behavior changes.

The word poop is now a regular part of the vocabulary. It is used where some people would say crap, shucks, heck, etc..

Also, a pretty constant tapping of the feet. Today tapping of the hands and/or fingers started.

I wonder if the fact that I've been encouraging a little more movement and exercise to help with a health problem brought on the tapping?

Nothing serious, just a definite change in behavior, and that always leaves me wondering what caused it or if it means something I should recognize.

On the bright side, most physical health issues have cleared up, we've seen a weight gain of 10 pounds, and a renewed interest in getting out of the house.

Thanks in advance for your input.

Dear Learning Curve,

It's very difficult to say what normal changes are in people with AD/dementia.

You may ask your Loved one is she/he is feeling OK? Is anything bothering him/her?

The weight gain is a good sign. You may,also, want to be on the look out for a silent UTI?!

Please, let us know what happens.

That's the thing, my LO can have signs and symptoms most people would recognize as being a problem, and either doesn't recognize it is a problem (like a swollen ankle) or doesn't have the capacity to realize what is causing the problem (knee hurts, stomach hurts, etc...).

I've learned to keep a very close eye out and look for indicators, and find myself searching for anything that could indicate a problem. A weekly doctors visit is becoming the norm as I try to muddle through things.

With the doctors help we've been able to address some serious issues (various forms of colitis, UTI's, cysts, etc...)

At this point all tests are coming back with positive results and I'm thankful for that.

Just gets frustrating trying to figure out what the small signs I get might mean.

On the plus side, the doctors have been very proactive, giving meds to help prevent other problems when dealing with any particular issue.

And yes, the weight gain is awesome! Just barley over 100 pounds 2 months ago. Although a bit of the weight gain is fluid, the majority of it seems to be from finally finding foods that are appealing.

Thanks for your reply and your input Lisa

My mom seems to tap quite a bit if she is not busy with a task. Fortunately, she likes working zigsaw puzzles and other activities at the NH, so it usually isn't an issue. I think a lot of AD folks have repetitive hand motions, so it may be a normal response. I would try to find something to keep your LO busy with their hands.

quote:

The word poop is now a regular part of the vocabulary. It is used where some people would say crap, shucks, heck, etc..

Right, my mom says anything she doesn't care to do, or can't do, is "boring".

Needing to go to the bathroom is now "visiting my friend John" which I've never heard her say before in my entire life!

Thanks all, I guess I just needed assurance that this just goes along with the territory. Three behavior changes at once really surprised me.