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What Do I Need to Learn?

Hello all,

Thank you for your collective wisdom. I've been reading posts and learning.

My DH was diagnosed with ALZ a month ago. We're early in the process with MCI right now. He works, drives, cooks, etc. (but is slowing down cognitively and short term memory is poor).

I'm taking some time off of work to get some things done. I have time to take a class or two. What should I study now to help me as things progress? Medical Assistant? Psychology? Social work? something else? What can I do to help prepare myself for the future?

I worked as a hospital chaplain and have a degree in pastoral counseling already, which has been helpful thus far.

Thanks in advance for any advice. 💜

Comments

  • jfkoc
    jfkoc Member Posts: 3,999
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    Validation…google Naomi Feil.

  • Iris L.
    Iris L. Member Posts: 4,540
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    Read as many threads on this board as you can. Then you will have had a good education on dementia and caregiving.

    Iris

  • Whatdowedonext
    Whatdowedonext Member Posts: 4
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    Do everything you can to slow the progression of the disease. Then emphasize the happiness of living, be grateful for each wonderful moment, do everything you are capable of now, travel, enjoy friends and family. This will go on for years and years, squeeze as much happiness as possible!

  • annie51
    annie51 Member Posts: 201
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    I agree with many here to say do what makes you happy and enjoy this time while you can. Before my DH lost his license, we had a trip planned to the mighty 5 National Parks in Utah which of course involves a lot of driving. We wouldn’t have done this trip if I was the only driver. But it was a great trip and even though DH doesn’t remember most of it now, he does have a couple of memories that stayed put. We were also able to do some ski trips and family visits up until this year when I pretty much put a halt to our travel days.

    This forum is a lifeline to your sanity! Such great and caring people willing to share or just listen.

  • greenolive
    greenolive Member Posts: 5
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    Thank you. My brother-in-law (DH's sister also has ALZ) suggested I watch Deepa Snow videos on YouTube. I haven't done so yet, but I'll add Naomi to my list!

  • playing
    playing Member Posts: 8
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    I have learned so much from many of you, just knowing that I’m not the only one experiencing many of these difficulties is such a blessing. Thanks to everyone for sharing your experience.

  • SDianeL
    SDianeL Member Posts: 1,140
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    Welcome and sorry about the diagnosis. 2 things that helped me after my diagnosis. The book “The 36 Hour Day” which was recommended by a nurse. And Tam Cummings videos. I don’t think there is anything that will prepare you to be a caregiver to someone with Alzheimer’s. It’s mentally & physically exhausting and when a new behavior pops up it’s a gut punch. I kept a list of my husband’s behaviors and sent them to his PCP & Neurologist and later his Geriatric Psychiatrist at least monthly. It helped me communicate with them without discussing it in front of my husband. As others have said, do things now. Don’t wait. Enjoy every moment. Come here for info and support.

  • Grandot
    Grandot Member Posts: 14
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    The book Did I Remember to Tell You has very practical helps and information.

  • Iris L.
    Iris L. Member Posts: 4,540
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    Grandot, can you post your book recommendation on the "Books About Alzheimer's" thread on the General Caregivers board, so more members can learn about it?

    Iris

  • Sandi Roe
    Sandi Roe Member Posts: 8
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    hi, my LO is about 3 years into this ALZ diagnosis. I’m looking for classes so I can help myself help him. I made sure we got a PET scan so we had a real diagnosis. Both his parents were E4 so he has the double gene. I do all the bills, he really doesn’t handle money well. He has guns that I’m trying to get rid of. He still drives but never remembers where he’s going. He went out for Hat Pastrami sandwiches and fries and came home with Jersey Mike. He doesn’t do well unless I’m with him. It truly is a bumpy road, prayers to all and lots of patience, we need it! Sandi R

  • ronda b
    ronda b Member Posts: 125
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    He needs to stop driving. He could get sued if he has a wreck weather it's his fault or not. He has the diagnosis of alzheimer's. Ins.might not cover him.

  • Lilydaisy
    Lilydaisy Member Posts: 28
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    I'm not sure a class will match up. Alzheimer's Assn has videos that are helpful. You may find suport groups in your area for you or both of you. Book "36 hour day" could be helpful too. It is an eye opener, although keep in mind what others will tell you. Each person's journey is an individual one. Best wishes.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
Read more