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Looking for other experiences with Aricept.

Caregivers: Dementia | Last Active: Jan 31, 2023 | Replies (42)

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@IndianaScott

Hello, @bonnie48 I'm Scott and while I'm not any kind of medical professional, I was one of my mother-in-law's caregivers during her fight with dementia. I was also my wife's caregiver during her war with brain cancer during which she had multiple dementia-mimicking symptoms. I also worked in the research department for the national Alzheimer's Association. I'm sure your partner's doctor knows far more about this than I do, but here is what I know.

From what I know of Aricept, it is not a long-lasting drug nor does it have universally similar effects for patients. I also recall it works to assist patients remain on a plateau and retard their future declines with their disease and isn't a curative drug. Therefore it would seem likely its effectiveness would decline over time.

Especially with my wife, I kept a journal so I could track her medicines, dosages, and changes in her daily activities, mood, etc., and reported those to her medical team. Over her journey, her medications were adjusted dozens of times.

Some of the symptoms you describe also seem to be similar to those of other patients with advancing dementia.

How long ago was your partner diagnosed?

Strength, Courage, & Peace

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Replies to "Hello, @bonnie48 I'm Scott and while I'm not any kind of medical professional, I was one..."

Thank you, Scott. Ron was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2017 and Alzheimer’s in 2019. His current neurologist is an Alzheimer’s researcher at a major university plus member of an interdisciplinary team of epilepsy & dementia doctors, PTs and OTs.
Ironically, I have a PhD in cognitive psychology & taught memory & decision making courses during my grad school years. And now I am re-learning the same information from a practical, personal point of view.

Scott, thanks for the hug!