Gene Hackman's death

elainechem

This is a sobering story for caregivers. We have to think about what would happen if something terrible happened to us, who would care for our loved one with dementia? Do you have anyone who checks on you regularly? I heard of one case in which the wife caregiver had a serious fall and broke something. She couldn't get to the phone. Her husband just stepped over her as he wandered about the house. It was a few days before someone became worried and checked on them.

In my case, I once had a serious bout of vertigo. I wasn't able to move without vomiting. It took some doing, but I got my husband to give me the phone. He understood that I wanted something from the bedside table. He began to hand me random items until he finally gave me the phone. If it had happened a couple of years later, he wouldn't have understood anything.

Something to think about...

https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cvgeqd2lqx0t?page=2

Dio

Elaine, I feel the same. One of the many reasons to place DH was due to my own failing health. I'm still working on getting better. But the doctor had warned that I could have a stroke in the middle of the night. It troubled me deeply as we have no children. My sister has been checking on me daily to ensure I was OK. Now that DH is in a well cared for place, I don't have to worry about him and just concentrate on getting my health back on track. Just make sure, caregivers, that you have a backup plan and that either a neighbor or friend or relative checks on you, too. Hugs to everyone on this wretched journey.

cdgbdr

What a terribly disturbing story of Gene Hackman and his wife. I'm sad that no one was involved enough to check in regularly. I know my best friend is concerned about what would happen if I got sick and only DH was around. I'm thankful for those who check in regularly.

Carl46

I have acquired a pendant to press if I need help, and that calls me if I fall. It won't be of use if I have a stroke in bed, though. Those of us who live alone or with LOs who can't help us probably should set up a telephone or text schedule with someone else, so help is sent if we don't answer the phone or call.