Hi Chuggalug
This disease is very difficult. I have periods when my cognition and understanding are better, they are now, but when they are poor my own struggle with words reflects my inability to understand or take in others responses and all I need and can cope with are one word or few word answers eg. in your example I could cope with a reply like 'No, not today', this for me would show me that someone understood I was struggling, that it was a bad day and therefore not a good one for tackling anything too much with high cognitive demands.
I have learnt, am learning that 'habit' e.g your husband powering up the PC is a useful tool for me and try to have realistic habits to maintain some daily structure e.g. making my bed (prior to my symptoms I did this too but it never bothered me if it didn't happen) now it helps me to maintain abilities and regain some that were lost at the start of all this. I am aware I am younger than a lot of people with this disease so it may be harder in years to come.
When I was first affected I lost so many skills on the computer and realised my brain was under onslaught so gave myself simple things to do on the computer like online puzzles with not too many pieces, I think it was vital for me to retain some computer skills, or any cognitive skills. I wanted to and did get rid of most of my books as I could not longer read, that has improved, which I never thought it would, but is variable.
I wonder if your husband now has no computer skills what would happen if the computer were moved out of sight? Maybe it would make things worse?
My hearing is affected, I went for hearing tests to be told nothing is wrong
, however, this too is worse at some times more than others - hence people's misperceptions at times when they think I am ignoring them on purpose, I am not.
Sorry if not helpful. It is so challenging.
Best wishes
Sue