[pachyderm]

which, of course, none of us is:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/01/us/01elderly.html

[ECHOES]

35 years ago the idea of communal living was waaay out there. Looks like we are heading that way eventually, or maybe only those of us who have homes on the edge of the golf course.

This was interesting. Thanks.

[pachyderm]

Turns out that I may be dealing, along with others, with this on a personal basis. My stepmother seems to be being medicated, and now is highly confused -- the question is, is that because of the medications she is being prescribed, or did it happen before the medications. A bit hard to determine what is happening at a distance of several thousand miles.

[Fresia]

I'm sorry Pachy to hear about your family member. Having been through this recently myself with several loved ones, my heart is with you.

Most MI meds are not tested for the elderly either which is a real problem for dosage and possible reactions. After working extensively in retirement communities/assisted living: depression, grief, dementia, and alzheimer's not to mention medical conditions can mimic or compound all of the above. It's important to find a physician who understands this and is not quick to diagnose and treat, but really look at the whole picture of what is going on in their lives, symptoms, and medical history. It can be difficult though to get an accurate picture if family is not involved, the community/care providers are not attentive, and/or if their own mind is not able to participate in their care (or even of course if they refuse help for whatever reason.)