Communitating with others

vaagesen

Hi All, My name is Vicki and I am new to this group. I am having difficulty communicating with "friends" who no longer want to listen to what I have to say!

Also does anyone know of a support group on Zoom that has a ongoing discussion?

Vicki

persevere

What do you have to say? 🙂

vaagesen

IS THIS HAPPENING TO OTHER PEOPLE?

How Alzheimer's affects relationships

It is crucial to remember that you are still the same person you were before the diagnosis. However, after sharing your diagnosis, you may find that others are uncertain about how to respond. Some people may shy away, while others may be eager to stand by you and provide support. You may find that people with whom you once had a close relationship are now uncomfortable talking to you or asking you about how you are coping.

It can hurt to realize that certain family and friends you thought would be there for you can't meet your expectations now. They may have discomfort about your diagnosis, as it stirs up fears about their own futures. People who can't be a part of your support circle now may join later once they have had time to adjust to your diagnosis. You may find it difficult to participate in social activities or interactions that were once enjoyable for you. Anxiety, frustration or loss are common emotions that you may experience about changes in your ability to follow a conversation, stay focused with competing background noise, or have enough energy to participate in social activities.

For many, these changes in relationships can lead to isolation, withdrawal and depression, which can have a negative impact on your physical and emotional well-being. However, it is important to establish and maintain meaningful relationships throughout your experience with Alzheimer's as it can enhance your ability to stay both physically and emotionally healthy. Learn how others are coping with Alzheimer's and changing relationships by joining our ALZConnected message boards and reading our Tips for Daily Life page.

eaglemom

Welcome to the message board. I'm glad that you've found us.

Your question is one that seems to be ask often and carries a lot of weight. By that i mean your feels can get hurt or you can hurt someone else's feels, not meaning to do so. Forgive me, but if your wanting to discuss your diagnosis with your friends, they are uncomfortable and will slowly fade away. However, if you can keep the conversation about whatever to chatted about before your diagnosis, then things should be fine. Sadly, you will find some people just fade away - for unknown reasons. (Personally its all about them and has nothing to do with you.) However, if you can plug yoursself into support groups, Zoom groups, etc you will find you will make an entirely different bunch of friends. And of this I'm speaking personally. It just happens. We've met so many people on this dementia journey, and I don't see why you won't either. Find support groups, put yourself out there and see what happens.

eagle