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Old Jan 15, 2020, 12:55 AM
AJ1219 AJ1219 is offline
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Member Since: Dec 2019
Location: Oregon
Posts: 7
Quote:
Originally Posted by winter4me View Post
I cared for my mother, in my home, who did have dementia, for a number of years. It is very important to know that nothing you will say or do can make her able to do/remember the things that she cannot, and things will get "worse", this is not behavioral but neurological. It really is best if you can develop a bit of humor (nothing mean) and a lot of patience, let the time go, don't worry too much in the moment, don't worry with your mother present.
If she has a health care power of attorney, it may need to be activated. She will need more assistance as time goes on. Maybe there is a 'senior center' or 'senior friend' or other program/assistance in her area that will not feel like someone coming in from outside. If she is doing 'OK' with you only coming 4 times a year, that is not bad. Maybe she was always anxious, whether that is true or not it is Normal with loss of abilities you once had, with dementia/changes in the brain/abilities) Reassurance is in order, even if it is a bit excessive.
If she doesn't have a power of atty it would be good to do that while she is capable.
I know it is hard but unless she is a danger to herself it is best if she is supported in whatever situation she wants to be in for now. It is not easy, believe me, I do know that. (and a peer support group for caregivers could be a real help for you, a place to let it all hang out and share stories with others...) Best luck!
I think the humor angle is a good idea. It never fully occurred to me since so many of our conversations are edgy, leading to grimness and rehashing of old news. It will be up to me to do the changing.
Hugs from:
Discombobulated