I feel like I’m in another country and don’t understand the language

trottingalong

Today my DH had a follow up Dr appt for his last ER visit. He told the doctor he didn’t remember being in ER and feels his memory is getting worse. After the visit, driving home, he seemed worn out. He turns to me and says “I think I have it” and I asked what does he think he has and he says I have “it.” It is what his mother had, two brothers, a grandfather and three aunts. I said whatever you have we are in it together. That’s when he said “it’s like being in another country and not understanding the language.” Such an apt description. He said the world is a confusing place and he doesn’t understand it. Such a sad and scary place to be.
For me, feel stressed most days, balancing every aspect of our life, but at the same time, thankful I am younger than he is (67 to his 80) since I have more strength and energy. The emotional toll for me is a bit overwhelming some days as we all know. Missing my children, grandchildren, family and friends.

M1

I’m right there with you, and I think it’s part of the price we younger spouses have to know is on the table, always (our age difference is 15 years). That is a very apt description, and it’s heartbreaking. My partner doesn’t remember her recent fall and ER visit either. She didn’t remember it even the day after.

Dio

Not remembering may be a blessing. Ignorance is bliss. It is when a PWD remembers but can't connect the dots that's frightful for them. And it's heartbreaking for us who can connect the dots. 😥

trottingalong

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/212689#Comment_212689

One of the more difficult issues for me is the aspect that on some days there is so much more clarity than others. I can see the progression though of a more constant inability to comprehend.

tigersmom

@trottingalong , this is about the most eloquent description of what life is like for a PWD that I’ve ever heard. It is going to stay with me for sure.