Diabetic Retinopathy

[KerryH]

My mum is late stage dementia, probably stage 6 of 7. She's also an insulin dependant diabetic. She's been in residential care since last October. We think although not diagnosed, she has diabetic retinopathy. We took her to the optician for a Check up at the weekend and the optician found fluid behind her eye and said she needed to see her GP urgently. Today she's been to see her GP who said that a referral to an ophthalmologist would take too long and she should go to the emergency dept at the hospital to be seen immediately as she thinks the condition is very serious. Her carers are taking her tomorrow. If. the diagnosis is what I think it may be, I can't comprehend a dementia sufferer losing her sight.

Has anyone else had this experience?



Sent from my iPad using Talking Point

 

[grove]

So Sorry.

Hi Kerry , So Sorry you have this bad news. Do not have any experience of this but wanted too push your Thread*** Up


Am sure some body will be able too offer advice soon

Thinking of you & sending strength for tomorrow

Love & HUGS

Grove. X. Edited correct. A error

 

[grove]

Thinking of. You.

Kerry today & your Mum. Sorry you have not had any replies of advice yet. How ever am sure some body will be along soon

Am giving your Thread a big bump up in the hope. It helps

Love , Kind thoughts & Hugs too you and your Mum

Thinking of you both

Love. Grove. X x

 

[maryw]

My Mum was severely sight impaired before she had vascular dementia. All I can say is it is very difficult but we did cope. Just ask for as much support as you can get from RNIB, Macular Society (they also support those with diabetic retinopathy). This was some time ago, we coped with all sorts of sight loss aids. My Mum loved her Talking Books even if she did listen to Agatha Christie's Moving Finger every day. Tried to keep Mum socially involved with lots of home visits. She did manage to keep her independence, but was on the verge of needing full time care when she died. Do feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Just re-read your post and see she is in residential care. There are specialist homes for those with dementia and sight loss. Google Thomas Pocklington Trust.