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About Alzheimer's Disease
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Alzheimer's Disease Questions and Answers
Alzheimer's Disease Research
Alzheimer's Disease Resources
About Alzheimer's Disease
Learn about what Alzheimer’s disease is, its symptoms & risk factors, treatment options and how to live with or care for someone with the disease.
Questions and Answers
My husband, who has had Alzheimer’s disease for 5 years, has a maddening habit of whistling constantly from the time that he gets up until he falls asleep at night. When I ask him if he knows that he is whistling, he says that he does. I've tried to drown the noise out with music and sometimes gently ask him to stop, but he only stops whistling for a few minutes. Do you think it would be a good idea to ask him to chew gum so that he wouldn’t whistle? Is there any end to this maddening noise? [ 03/10/10 ]

Constant noise-making, such as whistling, humming, singing, chattering, or muttering, is not uncommon in patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. As the disease progresses, it is likely your husband will eventually stop this behavior, possibly to be replaced by another such symptom. In the meantime, try to stay tolerant and remember that he would not constantly whistle if he could control his behavior better. Although it may seem maddening to you now, there will come a time when you will appreciate your husband’s ability to communicate—even if it is only by whistling.

Chewing gum could help as it might keep his mouth distracted. Just make sure that he does not have any teeth or jaw problems that could be aggravated by the constant chewing action, or any swallowing difficulties such that the gum could present a choking hazard. Also be sure to give him sugar-free gum.

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Last Reviewed On: 12/18/09

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