What to do? Mum has been diagnosed with Dimentia

argho1985

Hi, I am based in Australia and my mum and dad are based in India. Mum has been diagnosed with Dimentia and she could not recognise me. Dad and her are now in care home in India, but for me it is very upsetting to accept that she cannot recognise me. My work is getting affected and I am now becoming very sad ☹️. I don’t share my feelings but I guess I would like to connect with like minded people who have gone through this!

SusanB-dil

Hi argho1985 - welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason.

Yes, it is very upsetting when our LO no longer recognizes us! It hurts! You're at the right forum for support and encouragement. So sorry you are dealing with 'this'.

eaglemom

I'm glad that you found the message board. This is where you can share your feeling and we do understand because we've been there.

First off have you checked if there are any support groups you could attend - in person or virtually? Many people aren't fond of them, myself included, until I started attending. Now 13 years into my DH's journey I can't image a day without chatting with someone from one of the support groups. I can't explain it, but you just all can relate on the same level. I would also encourage you to read all you can on dementia. Become familiar with what your mom is going through. She's scared - she doesn't know what's happening to her.

Do you have siblings whom are checking on your parents? Relatives? Friends? How is your dad's health? If he's been a caregiver to your mom, I'm certain he's exhausted and scared at what's happening also. He needs encouragement. I know it hurt you to the bone that mom doesn't recognize you. She can't help it, its the disease. Just talk to her like you would anyway, because after all she is still your mom. In person hold her hand, touch her shoulder, give her a hug, kiss her cheek - all positive signs of affection she'll recognize without saying anything.

The journey is hard on the family and the one suffering through it. Take a deep breath and know we are here for you.

eagle