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[quote=Anonymous]Hi OP, 
When my mom started to lose cognitive function, it was quite upsetting to her at first, and produced lots of generalized anxiety. She knew something was wrong but couldn't really pinpoint or control it.

Now she is mid stage alzheimers and although she is aware at some level of her deficits, she seems far less bothered by them (mostly unaware of them too), so these things can go in stages (it is of course more upsetting for *me* now, especially to see her struggle for words, since she is someone whose verbal skills were unparalleled and I feel like I am losing her bit by bit).

A few things that can help: if he is losing short term memory, write things down and make sure he has a calendar or notebook for appointments. Get a large clock that has the day of the week on it. Consider how medications are handled--you can get them with alarms and locks. Speak with his physician about Namenda or similar medication that can help slow memory loss. One thing I have learned not to do is say things like "you just asked that, dont you remember?" or "I told you that yesterday." They do not remember and telling them that they should only increases anxiety. Instead, just go with the flow. If he has longer term memory (which is likely) ask him questions, record him talking. Play music.

My mother in law is 93 and experiencing some memory lapse, but nothing like my mother's alzheimers (mom is 84). If your father has made it to 92 with only just now showing signs of decline it may be that you and he will never experience late stage dementia, which I think is a blessing, although it certainly may not feel that way.

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