How about an Alzheimer's Group?

[liberalhistorian]

My stepdad began showing signs of Alzheimer's at only 57 years old, and had to retire early from teaching. He is now 62 and has deteriorated significantly. He's been in my life for 38 years (I'm 41) and it's really heartbreaking to see what is happening to him and that he is no longer the vibrant, funny, alive person he once was. He's still at home now, with my mom taking care of him, but I don't think it'll be long before it'll finally be too much for her.

I know that there are many others here dealing with Alzheimer's in one way or another. I think that an Alzheimer's Group might be a good way to give and receive support and exchange information about the latest research and treatments. Anyone else want such a group?

[DURHAM D]

1. I'm there. Both of my parents have Alzheimers.

We are three and a half years into their diagnosis(They are 84 and 89). Both are still very physically fit and we can't keep them out of the car - they are on the go all of the time. They are extremely stubborn and certain that they are still just fine.

We (my siblings and I) refer to keeping up with them as "Double Wac-a-Mole". We just never know what they are up to. Right now we are looking for a tracking device to put on their car.

They live in a retirement community but are still living independently. We have hired/provided the following services for them - a nurse to come to their house and put out their medicine (daily), a housekeeper (weekly) and a driver (whenever needed). My parents have refused entry to the first two and have never called the driver. Also, we have arranged (we paid) for them to eat one meal a day at the community cafeteria. They won't go.

[liberalhistorian]

2. Wow, you're really

dealing with it then, with a double whammy! Sounds like your parents are holding their own, for now. The thing I've noticed is that things will seem to be on an even keel for awhile, and then the deterioration will seem to be swift and sudden. Hopefully, your parents have a ways to go, yet.

[liberalhistorian]

3. Kick!

:kick:

I'm sure there are many more of you out there!

[reformed_military]

4. my 2 cents.

LH,

No members of my family with it, but I agree that we should have a group.

What about the "Keep LiberalHistorian from being such a stranger to DU" group? :thumbsup:

[foreverdem]

5. Both my mother and my mother in law have it

My mother in law lives with us. I'd be all for a group where people can exchange ideas, even just on coping.

[bettyellen]

6. look into finding a geriatric psychiatrist

for your won sake as well as the moms'.
someone PM me if you need me to add a vote for a group. you can count on missunderestimator as well. i believe i can speak for her on this topic, so PM her if you need a vote.
b