My wife first lost her memory and then her ability to speak and understand. She knows when I am there and we do go for short walks and occasional drives - she still sort-of gives off to me about my driving ! She also seems to know when family are there but her attention span can be measured in seconds.
There must be people like me, both men and women, whose partner is in care and would like to meet up and talk about our mutual problems.
Hi Danny
Did you attend any dementia support groups in your area before your wife moved into care?
My wife (PWD) and I go to a local group on the first Tuesday of each month. There are often people there who have either suffered a bereavement, or their loved one is in care now. They tell me they still find going to these coffee morning type sessions provide great comfort.
When I first spotted the signs that my wife's mental health was not right (and fearing what the diagnosis would be), I knew I had to do something to help keep her socialising and to build some sort of social support for myself.
So I managed to get her to visit a local pub and long story short, we've built a good group of friends. They not only keep my wife as engaged as possible but also give me strength when I need it.
Not saying you should rush of down the pub but you know what I mean?
Best wishes and good luck.
Phil