Emotional Support

Xena1980

I am living for 2 years now with my 78 year old mother who currently has dementia. She is now prone to falling cause she often gets confused while walking in our apartment. She had fallen last month cause she bent down to pick her glasses up off the floor. She then fell earlier tonight cause she didn't understand when I was trying to direct her on walking to her e chair from the bathroom. I have no local support emotional or otherwise. I feel as I'm losing her. She has an appointment in May to see a memory doctor. I don't want to put her in a home, but it may come to that. Just need to chat with anyone who can relate to what I'm going through. Thank you.

H1235

Welcome. Maybe it’s time for a cane or a walker. I believe moms walker was prescribed by her pcp and covered by Medicare. The next hurdle would be getting her to actually use one of them. Mom gets mad if I insist she use her cane (she should actually be using the walker). I’ve even seen her spinning it around like she is doing some kind of dance number, just to prove she doesn’t need it. Unfortunately there is not much doctors can do for dementia, so I wouldn’t expect much to change even after the appointment with the memory doctor. They can help treat the symptoms (anxiety, lack of sleep, hallucinations). But even then, some doctors are more willing to prescribe medications than others. Some facilities can have a waiting list. It might be a good idea to look into what is available near you and costs involved. Just to be prepared. Do you have a durable power of attorney. If not I would see if this is something she can still do. You are going to need it. I’m glad you found us here, but sorry you need to be here.

SDianeL

welcome. Sorry about your Mom. Falls are common in dementia. Usually due to visuospatial difficulties. If you can’t get her to use a walker, you should walk by her side at all times. Go with her to the bathroom and stand outside the door. Help her back to her chair. Everyone here understands what you’re going through. Some things that will help: read the book “The 36 Hour Day” and search online for dementia caregiving videos by Teepa Snow or Tam Cummings. Come back often for info and support. 💜