Tips For Caregiver's

People with Alzheimer's disease frequently become more disoriented after dark or when waking. Leaving a night-light on in the bedroom may be helpful.

~WebMd

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Grieving and Depression

Muddear has been exhibiting signs of grieving and possibly depression. Has she been diagnosed formerly? No, but for the past several weeks she has been mourning Walter's death all over again. She continuously expresses sadness over his death, which any parent would when they experience the loss of a child; but, it seems like a fresh wave of grief each time. In addition she has been displaying a significant loss of appetite.

We continually try to encourage Muddear. I have found that simply sitting and listening helps her deal with the grief. Everyone grieves in different ways; however, I wonder if the Dementia exacerbates the situation. The good thing is that Muddear does in fact remember his death, even though the details escape her. One example would be our conversation over the weekend...

"Walter missed mother's day this year. He normally calls, but this year he didn't."
"Muddear, you know Walter could not call you."
"I know he was busy."
"Muddear, did you remember that Walter died?"
"Yes, I know. But he didn't call me for Mother's Day."
"Muddear, Walter died in January, before Mother's Day. That is why he did not call you. He couldn't."
"Oh, he died in January?"

The details are always lost. I admit that I would rather remind her of the details rather than remind Muddear of the sad event. That would be an awful emotional shock to have to re-live over and over again.

2 comments:

A Journey Well Taken: Life After Loss said...

I give credit to anyone who can be a caregiver. It's a special place to be in. I wish you well.

njm said...

Thank you Elaine. It is new challenge everyday, but I believe my grandmother is blessed not have to live in a nursing home. For many there are no other options.