Alzheimer’s/Dementia

today is a fresh start…  

it’s an “I can” sort of day. 

CAREGIVER NOTE:

The holes in his memory are becoming much larger. It’s often quite difficult to watch and be a participant in those moments. Reframing just isn’t possible sometimes - and neither is trying to move around or beyond the moment that is causing such angst for him. At some point during the late hours he finally decided he couldn’t change it — all of the parties that were involved had died years ago and nothing can change the outcome. I’m grateful that he doesn’t explode or try to hurt himself or me when he can’t get the answer he’s looking for or the outcome he perceives he should have – like making a phone call to sort things out with a long deceased family member. It hurts both of us and I can see the emotions welling up as things become a little clearer as he works through it. He won’t remember what happened last night today, and we’ll likely revisit the same “problem” again today or tonight…. at least I know deep down, we can get through it and he’s got a safe place to do so. 

Where will your passion lead you?

CAREGIVER NOTES:
“Where are the keys?” ”Where are my car and truck?” ”Why are all those kids being so loud?” Just a few of the questions asked last night and there were a few more the night before — He was very confused, but at least he accepted the answers that were offered and he was able to relax a bit and go back to bed. This caregiver, however, is very tired this morning — Fingers crossed for a good day and better night. I think he senses the incoming change of weather as well. 

12.31.23

CAREGIVER NOTE:

As you show patience with others, give yourself some grace too. This can be a difficult time for everyone in the household. Something old, become something brand new yesterday – difficulty in understanding how it worked and what would happen if he did this or that, though he was familiar with it not 10 minutes before. Celebrate the small victories as some days, they are the biggest ones experienced throughout the day. 2024 will bring lots of challenges as the dementia grows — stay the course. Reach out for help if needed and remember that you’re not alone in the journey.  

Choose your pathway….

CAREGIVER NOTE:

We’re a step closer to having to set up the motion detector or foot pressure pad in his room after last night. He’ll notice the extra light in his room from the monitor, so I need to figure out a way to “hide” the light from his view but still get full use of the detector — he’s forgotten about the baby cam — but there’s no light associated with that — He’s been pretty stealthy getting out of bed and opening his bedroom door if it’s closed. Lately, however, he’s leaving his room door open, so there’s no door opening to warn us of movement that the monitor hasn’t been picking up. I’m not sure if opening the front door was part of a dream or what, but thankfully, the hotel latch sticks a bit and he wasn’t able to get outside into the freezing night and we were able to get him back into bed safely. I see a shopping trip today for a new monitor or two.