Stressed

Val2010

Caring for my LO with young onset dementia, and today was a terrible day. She is so obsessed with where her spouse is. Mind you he still has to work. The constant anxiety level she is at is unbelievable. At the end of the day, I am mentally exhausted.

M1

Hi val. Have you talked to her docs about medications that might help the anxiety? Would improve quality of life for both of you

Val2010

I have tried, but they aren't being very helpful. They just put her off until her apt with specialist.

harshedbuzz

I am sorry you aren't getting more help with this.

Medication can make a huge difference in helping a PWD with anxiety and help them get "unstuck" and more amenable to strategies like validation and redirection.

When is the appointment with the specialist? Can you schedule it sooner or reach out to that person? Is the specialist a neurologist? Maybe you should consider adding a geriatric psychiatrist to her care team. Dad's neurologists didn't have much to offer beyond getting a comprehensive diagnosis; the geri-psych was the one who helped us improve quality of life.

HB

Val2010

Actually. I call weekly to try to get a sooner apt.

I don't know how her body handles it. No way, my body could. And I'm in my 30s. Thanks for the suggestions, I appreciate it.

CarolynATL

You're doing fantastic calling weekly! You're doing the best you can with where you are in this. I don't have any advice, I just wanted you to know you are not alone feeling exhausted. Sometimes the best we can do is conquer one hurdle at a time. Best wishes to you and your mom.

VKB

Hoping you and your LO find some relief. If the doctor puts your LO on medication, just be aware of the side effects ahead of time. I said a prayer for both of you.