Hello all
I have joined this forum to seek some advice following my mom being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. My mom and dad live about an hour away from us and my 80 yr old dad, who, apart from diabetes is in relatively good health, is her main carer. They live in their own home but I have quickly become aware that this situation is not sustainable. My main concern being what would happen if anything happened to dad? I am certain that mom would not cope.
I desperately try to think of plans that could be put in place in order to prepare for all possibilities but each time I try to discuss the future and all possibilities with them, the shutters go up. I try to understand that it must be terribly hard for them to have to confront these issues but I can't stand to keep seeing dad struggling on with daily life and doing everything when there are alternatives that would make life so much easier and safer for both of them. I go as often as I can and am there regularly but this is no substitute for, as an example, an assisted living complex. There is one near us and each time I attempt to approach the subject I am met with resistance, even though I know they have considered this. how on earth do I have that frank conversation with them?
Also, what is a good place to start for me to make certain they have availed themselves of all support available to them? I am aware of the AD society and SS (but mum would deeply resent this) but what else is out there in terms of practical help and support?
Thank you in advance for any advice
Tim
I have joined this forum to seek some advice following my mom being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. My mom and dad live about an hour away from us and my 80 yr old dad, who, apart from diabetes is in relatively good health, is her main carer. They live in their own home but I have quickly become aware that this situation is not sustainable. My main concern being what would happen if anything happened to dad? I am certain that mom would not cope.
I desperately try to think of plans that could be put in place in order to prepare for all possibilities but each time I try to discuss the future and all possibilities with them, the shutters go up. I try to understand that it must be terribly hard for them to have to confront these issues but I can't stand to keep seeing dad struggling on with daily life and doing everything when there are alternatives that would make life so much easier and safer for both of them. I go as often as I can and am there regularly but this is no substitute for, as an example, an assisted living complex. There is one near us and each time I attempt to approach the subject I am met with resistance, even though I know they have considered this. how on earth do I have that frank conversation with them?
Also, what is a good place to start for me to make certain they have availed themselves of all support available to them? I am aware of the AD society and SS (but mum would deeply resent this) but what else is out there in terms of practical help and support?
Thank you in advance for any advice
Tim