Hello. I am the daughter of parents living with Alzheimer's. My mum has the illness, my dad is her sole carer. My sister lives nearby - I, unfortunately, live at the other end of the country. I signed dad up to the forum hoping it would help him but he is a very proud man who doesn't want to admit that it's tough - although he is very stressed and tired. So, I am posting on his behalf.
Recently, after a visit down south, my mum has deteriorated at a rapid rate. She has become infirm, is having hallucinations and delusions, sun downing, crying, and totally unable to express herself with words ( except occasionally). She has been assessed and is having a carer for 1 hour, 3 times a week - to help with bathing and dressing. Respite/day care is also available. I see this as something of a necessity if my dad is going to continue to cope. He needs some respite. But he feels that letting her go to day care would be abandoning her and the whole idea makes him cry.
He says it is his duty to care for her as long as he can - but my sister and I are worried that the stress is going to kill him. Does anyone have any advice about how I can help my dad to gently let go and accept help?
Thank you so much. Cath .
Recently, after a visit down south, my mum has deteriorated at a rapid rate. She has become infirm, is having hallucinations and delusions, sun downing, crying, and totally unable to express herself with words ( except occasionally). She has been assessed and is having a carer for 1 hour, 3 times a week - to help with bathing and dressing. Respite/day care is also available. I see this as something of a necessity if my dad is going to continue to cope. He needs some respite. But he feels that letting her go to day care would be abandoning her and the whole idea makes him cry.
He says it is his duty to care for her as long as he can - but my sister and I are worried that the stress is going to kill him. Does anyone have any advice about how I can help my dad to gently let go and accept help?
Thank you so much. Cath .