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I don't know what to do. She talks all day and all night and there is no one in the room. My room is right next door. She even seems to talk when she is sleeping. Is this normal in the later stages I am so exhausted. What can I do?

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She is agitated and likely needs medication to calm the behavior
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Reply to Daughterof1930
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If I am reading your question and your responses correctly Mom does have some agitation and has been prescribed medication and that medication helps.
I am guessing that you do not like the thought of giving her a medication for whatever reason...(it could be you don't want her "zombie" like or "zoned out" or whatever your reason)
Yes there are side effects to just about everything you take. But there is a "Burden VS Benefit" that needs to be considered.
Is mom more comfortable, more relaxed and at peace if she is not agitated? My guess is yes.
Are you going to be more comfortable, more relaxed and more at peace if mom is? My guess is yes.
Is that worth some of the side effects? Again my guess is yes.

So if you are concerned about dizziness, or drowsiness talk to her doctor about the dosage. has she been started on a low dose that can be increased when needed?

And there may come a time when she no longer talks at all. My Husband was non verbal for the last probably 5 or 6 years of his life.
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Reply to Grandma1954
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When my husband was admitted to a VA nursing facility in August 2024, he was in the talking phase. Most of it didn't make much sense but you literally couldn't get a word in edgewise. I asked the admin who was working with me to get the paperwork filled out, how long is he going to keep talking like this. Her response was that he would do it until things changed and then he wouldn't talk, then you will wish he would talk. That was true, now I wish I could talk to him. He passed away 3 months later. Be careful what you wish for.
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Reply to mammacow
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gwinnyb Aug 29, 2025
That is exactly how my husband was before he passed. He was at home and talked all night and all day, so I had to move him out of the bedroom so I could get some sleep. he passed 2 weeks ago after spending only 2 weeks on hospice. I would say that if he is at home, you need to get your rest, so provide a place for them to rest (and talk if they are doing that) that will not prevent you from sleeping. Having said that, thank you for caring for your loved one at home I know how hard that is
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Sounds like delirium
speak to doctor to medicate something to calm her down
Even if it’s temp
my father has a spate of delerium
we changed his tablets and he was given more water - ( that takes creativity!)
and it stopped
your mother prob needs a review of medication
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Reply to Jenny10
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That is what others have said but so far nothing helps but the Ativan.
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Reply to Spotsyvagirl87
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lealonnie1 Aug 22, 2025
Then give her Ativan on a strict schedule! Problem solved.
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Spotsyvagirl87: Pose your question to her neurologist.
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Reply to Llamalover47
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I’ve heard from others that nonstop talking (even when no one is there) can happen in the later stages of dementia. Sometimes it’s part of the brain misfiring, sometimes it’s comfort-seeking, and other times it can even happen in sleep. It can be really draining on caregivers, especially when you’re trying to rest.

A few things people have found helpful: checking with her doctor to rule out pain, anxiety, or medication side effects; using white noise or earplugs for your own sleep; and building in breaks for yourself so you don’t get too worn down. If the exhaustion gets overwhelming, respite care or help from family/friends can make a big difference.

It’s not easy, but what you’re describing isn’t unusual, and you’re not alone in facing it. 💙 Take care of yourself too — your rest matters
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Reply to TenderStrength5
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Talk to her doctor about medications for anxiety, or simply to sedate her.

There are some other things you can try, such as engaging with her, and Re-Directing her attention to something she can focus on. Distract Her.
Ask her something about her past, and let her talk and reminisce.
Watch something on TV with her and talk about what you are watching.
Offer a treat, or to go outside for a walk in a wheelchair, if she is able.

Make sure her environment is well-lit. Keeping lights on can be comforting to someone with anxiety.

You may have to try different medications before finding what works.
Here are some my husband has responded well to:
Trazodone
Depakote
Ativan

My nickname for the Depakote is a "Shut the F*** Up Pill".
When my husband is moaning non-stop for help, this will quiet him.

the Trazodone will relax him, physically.

the Ativan is a new addition, as his combination of pills has become less effective over time, and he's become increasingly agitated over-nights. Recently, I have tried leaving a light on over night which seems to help. I think the darkness feels so lonely and isolating. And for a dementia sufferer who has confusion and possibly hallucinations, the darkness can be scary.
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Reply to CaringWifeAZ
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