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My son is 39 years old and mentally challenged, Help
He has brain injury from birth, lack of oxygen. He is now having many problems just like dementia. Confusion lack of sleep has to be directed to bathroom even though he’s lived here for 19 years. Screams out profanities. This all started 3 years ago and is getting really bad. Can people like him have dementia at his age with his brain injury? Dr is doing an mri of brain in May. I have found in my area that drs want to put a name like “ impulse control disorder” instead of figuring out what is really the problem. 4 drs as of now and the 1 now is finally doing mri! Please help me with answers or where to go for the mentally challenged. My son was always a sweet child. Now I’m living with jeckell and Hyde personality!!!
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carolee888
I would only accept a diagnosis from a Neurologist since there are other conditions that mimic Tourette’s syndrome.
Jake
But I found there were problems that are similiar but bot Tourette's. Tourette's starts in childhood, I found out later. I think would be good to ask if he could have a problem that is similiar to Tourettte that did not start in childhood. The neurologist can research PubMed to find them. I am not asking to accept the idea, only ask the doctor to search on PubMed, where the published research studies can be found.
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1 ReactionI see you are dealing with an issue that is multifaceted. I hope you get out and have fun. Do you get respite care for him? As to your question, people with Downs Syndrome go through Alzheimer’s early in their lives. Has your son ever been evaluated by a geneticist? I’m sorry if I am repeating something that someone else has written, I’m on vacation and have very little time on my iPad. If you can determine a genetic cause you may be able to plan better for his future, and find other people in the same situation as you. I’m also wondering if you could consult with an Occupational Therapist to see if sensory issue are contributing to his problems. If so, the OT can help you with solutions. My best to you, and hoping you get some ideas here on Mayo Clinic Connect that are helpful.
Sorry I reread your post and you stated the cause for your son’s issues. I really shouldn’t try to write when dealing with jet lag. I still think an OT might be helpful. Also there are behavior specialists who can help you manage difficult behaviors. I hope you find answers that are helpful.
I am dealing with some of this [angry, blue language] behavior from my husband who is possibly having some issues with lack of oxygen (couldn't get him on it until after pandemic!). I do a lot of "scafolding" with notes in places and simplifying processes. For bathroom he has lighting and flashlight, for instance. He is easily frustrated. We have changed his anti-depressant and he is going to be evaluated by a neuro psychologist.
Request a 24 hour telemetry. EEG of brain. My son was misdiagnosed for years because of behavioral problems and it was because he had spike waves constantly and during sleep
autistic spectrum for adults. maybe? see if they can offer you something, since his functioningnis at a lower lever some companionship maybe
Check out
https://thearc.org
My granddaughter is 22 with similar problems so we understand your frustration. This is a great organization and should be able to give you some direction.