Oftentimes dementia patients don't even realize that they are experiencing low-level pain, which prevents them from being willing to participate in activities. However, patients who are routinely given pain medication often become more interested in activities.
I noticed this syndrome in both of my parents, and with their doctor's permission we experimented with a variety of over-the-counter pain medications. On the days they received the medication, I was able to get them to take more of their "walks" from the family room to the living room. When I withheld the medication - they pooped out much faster and just didn't "feel like it."
And on Monday mornings when it was time for them to go back to their Adult Day Care, there was much less resistance if the pain medication was given the night before when they were ready for bed.
It makes perfect sense - no one likes to do much when they're in pain -but I wonder how many caregivers even think to try it!
You can learn more about Jacqueline and find information about her book at ElderRage.com.
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