My OH, Pauline, was diagnosed with ALZ 4 years ago and Donepezil has certainly helped her (and therefore me) but, as we are both in our mid 70s I contacted local SS office for a carers assessment 6 months after diagnosis. I was a bit surprised to be told, too soon, you are ok. Anyway, in that time I have made two further requests since doing it online and getting an automatic reply to get assessment immediately, and still get fobbed off. Yes, I am coping but meltdown has come close and lack of good conversation an added burden but what else can I do? Love the way you write by the way.