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Where do we start?

christinaS
christinaS Member Posts: 2
First Comment
Member
in Caring for a Parent

We just received news today that my father who is 74 officially has Alzheimer’s (diagnosed through a blood test) we have been told that he had vascular dementia for a few years now, but mom and I are not completely surprised with this news, seeing as we have noticed the huge change and decline.
Where do we even begin? He as just put on a low dose medication (Donepezil). Is there anything else we can do so slow the progression? My father has been a diabetic for years and also suffered from a stroke 9 years ago.

Have your loved ones ever tried immunotherapy to help?

I have been watching videos from Dr. Berg who talks about liver issues being a big cause.

Forgive me for rambling but my brain is spinning. I’m an only child and want to help my mother as much as I can, while also caring for 6 children of my own. My husband and I are building an extension to our home for mom and dad so that I can be of more help for them both. I worry about this transition for him as well.

Any tips or advice would be so greatly appreciated.

Comments

  • SusanB-dil
    SusanB-dil Member Posts: 1,400
    1000 Comments 250 Likes 100 Care Reactions Third Anniversary
    Member

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

    First thing is to get DPOA and HIPAA accesses. Good to see a CLEC (elder-care lawyer) for proper navigation on that. MIL's DPOA had the Health-care initiatives built in, but it also helps to have access at the doctor's offices directly (less hassle).

    Next - please read what you can on 'this' horrid thing. There is a section in this forum for new folks. Also, the book 'The 36-Hour Day' is helpful. Familiarize yourself and mom with the stages. That is helpful to me so I know what is to come next without it being a surprise or shock. There are also various videos - Teepa Snow, Tam Cummings, very helpful.

    Also: Rule #1: Don't argue with a PWD. Rule #1: Must take care of yourself. Rule #2: See rule #1, both of them.

    Definitely make sure your mom gets respite from his care, especially into stage 3 and on (my little opinion). Maybe with an adult daycare center for dad a day or three a week might help her.

    Sorry you are dealing with 'this'.

  • christinaS
    christinaS Member Posts: 2
    First Comment
    Member
    https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/237359#Comment_237359

    thank you for this

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
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