Things have progressed

Bob in LW · August 4

I haven't posted here in quite a while, but things with my Significant other/life partner have progressed recently. At first, her only problem was short term memory loss which was easy for me to deal with. A few months ago, she started sleeping all day, often 16-18 hours a day. She also was getting no exercise and was eating much less than usual. She gets confused, especially when she gets up at night to use the bathroom. One of her doctors recently told me that these things are all normal as Alzheimer's progresses and are irreversible. At this stage, he said, we should let her do whatever makes her comfortable. Sometimes at night she walks out into the hallway because she is confused, and I have to have her come back to bed. To make sure that I wake up when she does this, I've installed sensors on the bedroom doors which ring a chime when one is opened. There are still some positive things going on as well. We recently went on a car trip where we drove 200 miles a day. Instead of sleeping, my SO was alert and enjoyed commenting on things she observed as we drove. She is 89 and I'm 90, and last week her Neurologist commented that she hopes to be as active as we are when she reaches our ages. We are planning to hire a part time caregiver so that if I should be hospitalized, for instance, we will have someone who knows what my SO's needs are.

Jeanne C. · August 4

I'm sorry about the progress but am so pleased you've been doing well and still going on adventures.

M1 · August 5

Good to hear from you. I feel for you being a caregiver at age 90!!!! Sounds like a good idea to get someone on board to help.

Bob in LW · October 18

I started this thread in August, and to show you how fast Alzheimer's disease can progress, my SO passed away yesterday, October 17.

JeriLynn66 · October 18

I'm so sorry for your loss. Peace be with you.

marier · October 18

My deepest condolences on the loss of your SO. My heart goes out to you as do my prayers and thoughts.

ronda b · October 18

I'm so sorry for your loss.

White Crane · October 18

I’m so sorry for your loss. May God grant peace.

Caro_Lynne · October 18

So sorry for your loss Bob. May your SO RIP xo

Jgirl57 · October 18

Peace to you and your family (((Hugs))).

jfkoc · October 18

Please add my condolences. And please remember, as this new chapter begins for you, that we remain here for you 24/7.

fmb · October 18

@Bob in LW I am so sorry for the loss of your life's partner. It sounds like the end came mercifully quickly, and that you were able to enjoy life together up until recently. May you find strength and peace for the days to come.