Alzheimers and PCA

Anosognosia is very common with dementia. It is the inability to recognize their symptoms or limitations. It is not denial! He brain is not capable or recognizing these deficits. It can be so difficult to deal with. My mom wanted to mow her lawn, power wash the swing and so angry there wasn’t a full stove and oven in her assisted living apartment. The doctor put her on medication to help with her anger, but she said she didn’t need medication for some so called mood problems. I later told her the medication was for her blood pressure. Would something like that work? You might also ask the doctor if it can be ground up into applesauce (ask the doctor first!). It’s important to never try to reason with a person with dementia. They will turn it into an argument and you will always lose. It’s best to try and live in his world as much as possible. Adjust things to accommodate him without telling him. If he says he is goServe more finger foods if that would help. I think it’s important to never bring up a person with dementia’s symptoms or limitations in front of them. You may find it helpful to use a therapeutic fib. I know it seem wrong to lie, but if that lie lessens his anxiety or anger in some way I think it’s worth it. My mom was very angry with the loss of her independence. Medication helped, but it took a while to figure out. You need to leave the house now and then. Maybe it’s time to talk with his doctor about medication so he can accept someone else. Is there a way you could have someone come in to ask him a question about something her enjoys or collects as a cover for them being there to care for him? Put on a bit of a show (come up with a good story he will buy into). I hope something here is helpful.

https://www.darpelelderlaw.com/therapeutic-fibs-and-dementia-a-compassionate-approach-rooted-in-love

@Sdcrew

If you were hoping that overcoming his "denial" would allow you to make a logical case for an in-home caregiver to provide you with some respite, you would surely be disappointed.

He's not in denial, he has anosognosia. His brain disease prevents him from appreciating the scope and impact of his limitations. In his mind— his reality— he's just fine. He's likely beyond reasoning at this point as well. You'll need to create some fictious narrative to be able to take your breaks. A lot of folks hire a cleaner who happens to be there while you have to step out for a bit. Others make up a story about a friend-of-a-friend visiting or even helping out someone studying to be a nurse who needs clinical hours. Another option is a day program that "needs volunteers".

HB