@A myALZteam Member: @A myALZteam Member has given you some very good guidance.

This is a very sad situation, and you really need a diagnosis and medication for your father. The problem is that you need that to happen sooner rather than later.

If he wasn't angry and you weren't in danger, you could start with his primary care doctor and let him know what's been going on, and make sure his doctor is aware of the 3 siblings with Alzheimer's. The primary care doctor would do a quick cognitive exam and would probably make a referral to a Neurologist, where you would go through all of that information again. The Neurologist would order an MRI and various other tests, to ultimately make a diagnosis and prescribe medications. He/she might also refer him for a Neuropsych Evaluation.

Unfortunately, all of this takes time: from start to finish, my husband's diagnosis was a 6-month process.

When there is anger and agitation, and you feel in danger, you don't have time to wait for a long process to unfold -- BUT as FredT said, you can call 911. Your dad can be taken to an Emergency Room, where you can speak with the doctors, and tell them what's been going on, and tell them about the 3 siblings who all have Alzheimer's. Refuse to take him back home until and unless he's properly diagnosed and medicated, because he has previously hurt you, causing you to feel unsafe with him, and also to be concerned about your children's safety. In an E.R., they can call in a Neurologist and do the MRI and other tests right away, and they'll undoubtedly check for a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection), which is known to cause great agitation.

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Heather, your path is hard. You have much resposibiity, and I know it's confusing. As he seems early in the process, it would be best to get a diagnosis and what meds the doctor would recomend. My wife had Alzheimers for 14 years and I was her caregiver. Later in her Alzheimer's there was violence. People were at risk. I called 911 and they brought an amblance with them. She was taken to an E. R. where they found a minor UTI. She was violent in the hospital. four security and three nurses couldn't hold he down. I stepped in and was able to calm her, so they could do tests. By calling 911 she got the care I couldn't give her. There are many people on this site who can help you.

Heather, I don't know how far along he is, but you can never let him hurt you. I found with my wife UTI's can cause anger. They are confused and don't know what is happening to them. Many have seen anger and violence as I have. If you ever feel in danger call 911. Consult your doctor as medications can help with this. Be well, Fred.

Remember that he is likely aggravated by his memory loss, inability to do things that he used to, loosing things, decreased independence, etc. He’s not angry at you, he is angry at his situation and his brain. This causes increased agitation and sometimes just plain cruelty. Remember we tend to lash out at those we love because they are safe. Try not to take it seriously. (I know, it’s hard). Look under the resources tab for things that may help. Good luck. Big caregiver hugs!

I live in his home with my kids . Clearly can't leave now but I don't know what to do. I'm a single mom .