My lovely dad was diagnosed with vascular dementia in April 2015 - looking back the signs were there, but like most cases, in isolation they didn't ring any bells. My mum has been trying her best to look after him, without any 'outside help'. As she is a private person and would see this as letting dad down. It's not been easy and there have been plenty of tears, frustration, upset and heartbreak at how this illness takes away the person you love. Unfortunately mum's health hasn't been great and she's been in and out of hospital herself from Dec 16 - Jan 17. This has caused dad to be more confused than ever and I've taken time off work to look after him. Now mum is home she's supposed to be recouperating. However this is impossible since dad is demanding attention- he can't remember that's she's poorly, let alone she's been in hospital. Yesterday he had a heavy nose bleed which resulted in my taking him to a&e where he was admitted for the night. Last night I stayed with my mum who slept for the first time in a long time as there were no interruptions from dad's demands. She - we - need help. Her health is deteriorating due to the stress but I don't know what help is out there. All I know is this can't be a unique situation.
The problem is that my dad doesn't think there's anything wrong with him. It's heartbreaking.
I am doing all I can to be there for them both - after all they looked after me - but with 3 kids, a (very supportive) husband and a job, I can't do it all on my own.
Any advice would be gratefully received.
Sorry for the long post x
The problem is that my dad doesn't think there's anything wrong with him. It's heartbreaking.
I am doing all I can to be there for them both - after all they looked after me - but with 3 kids, a (very supportive) husband and a job, I can't do it all on my own.
Any advice would be gratefully received.
Sorry for the long post x