Alzheimer's Disease is more than just memory loss. This video is a sample of my daily life taking care of my 68 yo dad. (Sorry for vertical)

Just watched your video and can completely commiserate. I've been taking care of my Mom for the last five years while her dementia has gotten progressively worse day by day. I count myself lucky though as 1) it hit her late in life, she's 84, and 2) she isn't very mobile, 3) I've had previous experience as a CNA and worked in long-term care facilities, including a lock-down ward for Alzheimer's/dementia residents. It looks like you've got to chase your Dad around quite a bit. :/ That can't be fun.

Not sure if your Dad does this (yet?) but my Mom will get caught in "loops". Example: I'll get her on the toilet, she'll go and then I tell her to grab some paper to wipe. So she'll start folding the toilet paper to prepare herself a swatch and fold..and fold..and fold.. 1/4 TP roll later and then she remembers to tear it off. Or a birthday card I got for my sister recently was one where you had to unfold it several times. Mom picked it up and unfolded it, reading it along the way, opened it up entirely, read my well-wishes inside, then folded it back up, then proceeded to unfold it, reading along the way, etc. This happens until I take it away, or she gets distracted by some other outside stimulus.

I guess all I can say is keep on keepin' on. I know the headache of having to try to rationalize with a person with dementia. The confusion, the obstinace/stubborness, the fact that they can't remember that they can't remember...just try not to let it takes it's toll too much on you. Take those small breaks when you can..it'll help against any guilt, frustrations and hopelessness you might feel.

I'm in the process of finding placement for my Mom and probably should have done it a lot sooner. I just couldn't do it, man...and even knowing I did my due diligence in taking care of her, I still know I'm going to feel guilt over putting her in a home. I never used to use terms like "one day at a time" or "it is what it is" but I sure do now. A lot.

Anyway, my best to you, your Dad and all those around you. Feel free to PM me if you want to vent to complete stranger. It does help. You are an awesome son for taking care of your Dad like that and sometimes you can't hear that enough times.

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