My Mental Health

Istoppedescaping

Hello, my mom is in the final stages of Alzheimer's. I still go see her at the NH and it still is so painful to see such a vibrant woman deteriorate for the past 7 years. I don't know if she knows who I am or who she is at times I say to my self "why go"?

It's good when I see her and she is still in bed, her hair is not fixed up, is thirsty, etc. Because then I can help her again like I used to. I know and socialize with a few other patients, Nurses, CNAs and staff.

When I leave, I go straight to Church. I pray for her, the NH, me and the world. However their are some weeks where I just can't get myself to see her. I suffer all week with guilt and depression. This is just the way it is for me. Recently I started DBT and it really is helping me cope with my emotions. I hope everyone has a blessed day and thank you Alzconnect and all the people here. I would truly be lost if I did not join Alzconnect a suggestion from the Alzheimer's association. 🫶

harshedbuzz

Balancing your emotional needs in late-stage dementia care is not easy. Kudos to you for getting help to navigate this difficult situation. DBT has been really helpful for a couple of friends when other approaches didn't "stick" for them.

HB

Istoppedescaping

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/196940#Comment_196940

Harshedbuzz

I agree and thanks

Alice94

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/68045/my-mental-health

I am so sorry. My mom's Alzheimer's nearly drove me into alcoholism. It tore me apart. She had a PhD in biochemistry and was a professor at MIT. She died on January 6th of this year. She would have been 90 on January 31st. You are going through hell. Please be kind to yourself. Call the Alzheimer's helpline, they understand and you can just break down and let your feelings out. I am grieving like I never thought I would. I thought I'd feel relieved, I don't. I miss her very day even though she hasn't recognized me in years. Again, I am so sorry for your pain.

Istoppedescaping

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/196996#Comment_196996

Hello, you are the second person who has said the pain of your mom passing is worse now than the pain of her illness. I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you so much for your comment. May God bless you with your grieving!