New to Alzheimer's

Heather/Lindy07

Hi! I am new to this site. My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. My dad is her primary caregiver. My brother and I try to help the best we can right now as we have our families to take care of. My brother helps a little more cuz he lives next door. My family and I live an hour away. We try to get out there when we can. My brother and I have two teenagers each who keep us busy with school events and sports. My family and I started to see a decline in her health 2 years ago. It wasn't long after that she was diagnosed. It started happening not long after my grandmother passed away of Dementia. When we heard of her diagnosis I was shocked and didn't want to believe it! This last year has been rough on all of us. When she was diagnosed we were told we caught it early but I find that hard to believe cuz she's been progressing even though she's on 2 medications. My aunt( mom's sister) lives in another state but a huge help,supporter and advocate. She is able to see and help make decisions on all of my mom's medical issues. This is a huge help for my dad. She is also a retired nurse. She is always coming home and staying with my mom and dad. We have a huge support within my family. Emotionally we are having a hard time. I have told my aunt that I know mom is still here and I need to stay positive and have faith in God,which I do,but sometimes it's hard. But I told her I miss the mom that she was when my brother and I were growing up. But in all this I have to trust that God has a plan and he will protect and provide for us! My mom is still with us and we will keep making happy memories while she's still with us!!

Maru

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/72497/new-to-alzheimers

My DH has AlZ. I am and will be his caretaker as long as I can. We are fortunate that two of our children are minutes away. I know that all our kids are going through the same sad feelings that you are. I send out group messages to keep everyone in the loop as to his progress. It is difficult to help from a distance other than being sympathetic to your dad. I am sorry that your family has to go through this. Read "The 36 Hour Day" to better understand this and what you might expect in the future.