We're worried about a man who we think has dementia or alzheimers?

Question

There is this older man (I'd say mid-to late 70's) who comes into my work almost daily (I work in a grocery store) Quite a few of my coworkers and I think he he has a severe problems with memory and he seems to be getting worse. He cannot perform tasks he could several months ago, like getting money out of the ATM,  he asks where it is a lot, and it hasn't moved. He's asked what aisle the ice cream is in almost every time he's come in for about the last 2 months and he's in 4 or 5 times a week. The brand of cigarettes he buys was discontinued and he still asks for them even though I've told him numerous times they no longer make them.  We are worried about him, he always comes in alone and he drives himself. The fact that he drives sort of scares us all.  Maybe he's got no family but if we've noticed his confusion, they must have or they are in denial of his problems 

Is there anything we can do about him or for him, we are worried about his safety and other people(since he drives)?

LifesABeach · Accepted Answer

I think it's great that you care enough to be worried and want to help this man. If it's possible to find out who his family is and contact them just to let them know your concerns you will get one of three responses: 1. its none of your business, we k now what's going on with him; 2. thanks for your concern - we'll check on him and see about getting him to a doctor; or 3. thanks for your concern - we already know he's having troubles. It's true that often people go into denial when it comes to an elderly relative's behavior changes. What many people don't realize is that there are many treatable conditions that can restore the person's normal behavior. And of course, your concerns about dementia (often caused by Alzheimer's) are valid concerns, too. Does the man remember coming in each day? When you tell him where the ice cream is or that his cigarettes are no longer available, does he remember then that he's asked that before, or is it totally new info? It's not your place to diagnose him, but it's good you are worried and notice. I'd try to start with talking to family before going to the police, but that is an option if you think they might have the opportunity to evaluate his driving.

nickipettis · Answer

well, at a minimum, there is a memory problem.   that actually be caused by too many (unnecessary) drugs.

if you don't know who is family is, you could call the police, talk about the memory problems, and ask if they have a reason to double check his driving skills.

i don't think this is a great solution, but i understand you are worried he could hurt himself or others by accident.

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We're worried about a man who we think has dementia or alzheimers?

2 Answers