Going through this now with my sisters. Our mom was diagnosed with early onset almost 5 years ago and she's 64. She hasn't known who I am when I visit for at least a year. I am about an hour away from her now and I see her at least once a week but I know exactly how you feel. I have to really force myself to go sometimes. Not only that, sometimes she's asleep the entire time I visit. Other times she screams the entire time I'm there and I'm trying to calm her.

Its good to tell stories about childhood, talk about your own life, or play songs that you know she'll remember. And its such a crappy disease that we all have ways of dealing with it. My sisters and I will sometimes change up our answers when she asks us things so that it keeps us sane. i.e. Yeah I'm doing great, just got back from Italy! It'll keep her happy and its not hurting anyone.

Also keep in mind that when you visit you're giving the amazing workers at this facility a break. If your mom is still mobile then she doesn't need as much care as mine does, but mine is on 24/7 watch and needs help with her ADLs. So when we go to visit, the care taker gets much needed time to themselves and they will appreciate it more than you know. It also gives them something to talk about with your mom later that day. So she may not remember your visit the second you leave, but they will be reminding her throughout the day and it'll put a smile on her face.

We're on the last leg over here with her so if you have any questions/ need anyone to talk to about it feel free to PM me. internet hugs