Unusual Behavioral Symptoms in Elderly Parents: A Guide

Could you please provide more context or information regarding your question for Dr. Su?

Hello Dr.
Su, our mother is exhibiting the following symptoms: 1.
She turns off the TV abruptly, turns off all the lights, and checks outside to see if anyone is watching or eavesdropping.
2.
She asks us to speak quietly in the middle of a conversation.
3.
She wakes up in the middle of the night and asks us about events from 800 years ago.
4.
One moment, she calls her husband 30 times and her sister 10 times, and the next moment, she erupts in anger over a minor disagreement about the hot pot she just cooked.
5.
She has written various classic quotes, such as "One should be honest," and posted them all over the room, including the bathroom.
6.
While washing her hair, she claims there are preservatives and chemicals, insisting that rinsing with plain water is sufficient.
7.
While eating, she repeatedly asks if we are done and rushes to order more food or serve us, and after we finish, she insists we hurry to brush our teeth and go to bed.
8.
Although the neighbors or security personnel have not bothered her, she frequently (up to 5 times) goes downstairs to complain about the security staff upon returning home.
9.
If something doesn't go her way, she claims someone is conspiring against her.
10.
She has covered the windows with cardboard to prevent anyone from looking inside.

Tina Lu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/10

Dr. Su Zongwei reply Psychiatry

There is indeed a problem; please visit the psychiatric outpatient clinic.

Reply Date: 2016/02/10

More Info

Understanding unusual behavioral symptoms in elderly parents can be a complex and challenging task, especially when these behaviors seem to escalate over time. Based on the symptoms you've described, it appears that your mother may be exhibiting signs of significant emotional distress or possibly a mental health condition.
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that the behaviors you’ve listed—such as paranoia (e.g., believing someone is watching her), mood swings, obsessive behaviors (like writing quotes all over the walls), and heightened anxiety—could be indicative of several underlying issues. These might include anxiety disorders, depression, or even early signs of cognitive decline, such as dementia.

1. Paranoia and Anxiety: Your mother’s behavior of checking if someone is watching her or listening in could suggest a heightened state of anxiety or paranoia. This is not uncommon in older adults, especially those who may feel vulnerable or isolated. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including excessive worry about safety or the intentions of others.

2. Mood Swings: The rapid shifts from calm to anger, as you described, could indicate emotional instability. This might be related to underlying depression or a mood disorder. It’s also worth noting that grief from losing a loved one can significantly affect emotional regulation, leading to outbursts or feelings of being overwhelmed.

3. Obsessive Behaviors: Writing quotes on the walls and being overly concerned about cleanliness or the way things are done can be a sign of obsessive-compulsive tendencies. This behavior may serve as a coping mechanism for her anxiety or feelings of lack of control in her life.

4. Cognitive Changes: The mention of asking about events from "800 years ago" and her confusion about daily routines could be early signs of cognitive decline. While it’s normal for memory to fade with age, significant lapses or confusion about recent events can be concerning and warrant further evaluation.

5. Social Withdrawal and Isolation: If your mother is exhibiting behaviors that lead to social withdrawal or conflict with family members, this could exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression. Encouraging social interaction and maintaining connections with family and friends can be beneficial.

Given these observations, it is crucial to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Here are some steps you might consider:
- Encourage Professional Evaluation: It would be beneficial for your mother to see a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, who can conduct a thorough assessment. This may include cognitive testing and a review of her emotional and psychological state.

- Open Communication: When discussing her behaviors, try to use "I" statements to express your concerns without sounding accusatory. For example, "I feel worried when I see you upset" can open a dialogue without making her feel defensive.

- Involve Family Members: If your mother has a good relationship with your brother, it might be helpful for him to join the conversation. Sometimes, hearing concerns from another family member can make a difference.

- Monitor Changes: Keep a journal of her behaviors, noting any patterns or triggers. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in understanding her condition.

- Support and Reassurance: Providing a supportive environment where she feels safe to express her feelings can help alleviate some of her anxiety. Reassure her that she is not alone and that you are there to help her through this.

In conclusion, while it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact nature of your mother’s symptoms without a professional evaluation, the behaviors you’ve described suggest that she may be experiencing significant emotional distress or cognitive changes. Seeking help from a mental health professional is a crucial step in addressing these issues and improving her quality of life.

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