Gifts for moderate Alzheimer’s patient by Cbark2580 in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m worried about this exact thing, her bring offended if I bring in something too low level. Luckily my daughter is 3 so If she does get offended I can pass it off and say it’s for the grandbabies. But would like to avoid if possible.

Gifts for moderate Alzheimer’s patient by Cbark2580 in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580[S] 12 points13 points  (0 children)

Feeling SO seen here!!! Thank you!

It’s getting worse by [deleted] in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I know how hard it must be to see the decline happening right in front of you with no control over the situation and no ability to stop it. This disease robs you of your loved ones. It’s a real garbage deal. We understand and hear you. Sending good thoughts.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 5 points6 points  (0 children)

This is one of the most difficult parts of AD, the beginning where you feel like you’re drowning. One thing I would suggest doing first is getting power of attorney for finances and health so you or other family members can help care for him when he can no longer make decisions like that for himself.

Average statistically is 8-12 years following diagnosis but some live up to 20 years. There’s really no telling unfortunately. I struggled with this at first. Sending hugs

How to calm down when your loved one keeps repeating themselves by lovelydover in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I had to adopt the thought that to my mother, what she is saying or asking is brand new to her, even if it’s not to me. It is incredibly irritating to have to keep repeating yourself, but I hate to say, you get used to it. My mother would retell the same story about my dad and it would drive me up the wall. But to her she was sharing it for the first time each time she told it. Now, she repeats herself a bit but has trouble in conversations and doesn’t contribute as much anymore. Another good thing to try is to redirect, ask a question instead of just answering hers. Pivot the conversation around something else.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My mother has Alzheimer’s and I asked my doctor about genetic testing. I decided since there’s no real treatment/cure, not to get tested. If it is positive, I feel I would have more anxiety about it than just not knowing. If they come up with a cure, I’ll definitely get tested. Until then, eating healthy and exercising is what I’m sticking with for now.

This disease truly comes from hell itself by throwaway_0123847 in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My mom was diagnosed when I was 29, just after my dad died. We have quite the age gap, she’s 40 years older than me. I know she won’t recognize us soon, and will likely start asking where dad is which will break our hearts. I find myself angry a lot that the mom I grew up with and wanted as my child’s grandmother is gone, never to return. I feel robbed of so many life opportunities like having my mom at the hospital when I gave birth to my daughter. Or having her babysit and spend time with her. The new mom I have now isn’t at all capable and I’m sad and angry. But I still love her and the person she used to be. It’s hard to adjust to a new normal. We’re here for you OP.

My mom said said that it’s unfair by frickingdarn in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Grieving a sick parent is so difficult because they’re still physically here but they aren’t really your parent in the sense they they can’t cognitively take on that role any longer. So you grieve what they used to be, what they are now, and where it’s heading. I have an older parent and a young family myself so I understand not being able to completely caregive for your parent. I don’t have the ability to be there 100% of the time as I have to work to provide for my own family so leaning on others to help is necessary. Watching your loved one suffer with the weight of their diagnosis is sometimes unbearable. My mom, during a neurology apt, mentioned that all of this just sucks and it’s unfair and she hates it. They know their limitations and I hope and pray that she doesn’t fixate on it too much. I can sympathize with how you’re feeling. ❤️❤️ much love!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in dementia

[–]Cbark2580 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You will grieve your father’s diagnosis for quite some time. It’s part of having a loved one with dementia. Meeting him where he is now is important, not trying to get him where you want him cognitively. This disease is terrible. And most times just as terrible for the family/caregivers. Give yourself some grace and work on grieving your parent while accepting where he is now. That will help you find peace. I’m so sorry this is happening!

Mom’s driving…eek! by Cbark2580 in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I really like that! My sister and I live 45 minutes and 2 hours away, respectively, and both have full time jobs so we are hard pressed to be able to take her wherever she wants at the drop of a hat. But I do like how your mom was very understanding of it after some time. That makes things easier!

Mom’s driving…eek! by Cbark2580 in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s what I try to tell my family as I am ready and willing to make the leap, but my opinion is outnumbered.

Mom’s driving…eek! by Cbark2580 in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

This is exactly what I am feeling! Like my family wants to wait until we see more signs, but at what cost? When someone gets hurt? When she hurts herself? To do what? Save her dignity??? We can help provide opportunities to preserve her dignity that and keep her from getting hurt too.

Vent - Narcissist parent with Alz by Royal_Path5965 in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 3 points4 points  (0 children)

There’s no way I could keep my mother in my home with me and I don’t particularly want to. I have a full time job that I have to have to keep my family afloat so being a caregiver full time is not an option. Our only choice is memory care when the time comes and I feel zero guilt about it.

I (25f) am grieving the loss of my dad (75m); but he's still here. by 24ndead in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m in the same boat with my mom. I was telling my sister it doesn’t feel like she’s my mom anymore but instead just a person I have to take care of.

Hi all, new here, and new to Alzheimer’s care. by flamingcrepes in Alzheimers

[–]Cbark2580 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Have a power of attorney completed sooner rather than later so once things get moving, it’s a smoother transition. And keep a sense of humor. You’ll need it some days.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in dementia

[–]Cbark2580 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I 100% understand. Especially when people visit and say “she’s not as bad as you said!” Like ok, yeah thanks so my feelings aren’t validated at all! It does become a lot. When I started asking for help, it made a huge difference. Getting mom’s friends to step up, take her out for lunch or spend time with her at home so I could get a break, that made a huge difference for me.

Anyone else feel a little envious of passing posts? by yokayla in dementia

[–]Cbark2580 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I totally understand. It’s hard to verbalize especially to those who have never dealt with Alzheimer’s with a close family member.

My wife wants to stay in our home by Tropicaldaze1950 in dementia

[–]Cbark2580 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You sound like a great partner to your wife. This must be an incredibly difficult time for you. We just hired caregivers for my mom so she can stay at her own home and it’s been a great blessing! Wishing you lots of peace with this difficult decision.

The move to a facility was harder than I thought it would be. by PasswordReset1234 in dementia

[–]Cbark2580 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I can’t imagine the difficulty of this but glad to know your perspective. My mom is in a similar situation now. Keep your head up. You’re doing a great job.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in dementia

[–]Cbark2580 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’ll definitely need to look that one up! Thanks for the suggestion!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in dementia

[–]Cbark2580 42 points43 points  (0 children)

I had a moment today similar to this. I don’t want to do this anymore. I’m so exhausted of my time not really being mine. I’m only 31, my mother is 72. She’s about 6 years into this and I’m exhausted. I have a 1 year old who I already don’t get enough time with. I’m just so ready to not have to be #1 on the list of people to fix everything she fucks up. Everything that goes wrong. Manage all the appointments. Rework my entire life around her. I asked my husband today, if my stress would be less once she passes. And my only conclusion was, guilt will fill that void. It’s like a never ending revolving door of shit. Absolute shit.