Hello everyone. My dad (75) was given a "working diagnosis" of Vascular Dementia last Friday, to be confirmed (or not) by an upcoming CT scan and blood test. He and my mother (74) live with me and my two children (15 and 10) and my husband, when he's not working away (which is 5 nights out of the 7 usually and sometimes 10/14). The testing was at my request and even though I had my suspicions, I'm devastated. I mourn the dad I knew; I don't recognise this stranger as him. I feel such pity for this strange, frail and difficult man that I am suddenly carer for. And helping my mum deal with it, means I have to constantly be strong, practical and calm when really I just need to cry and be comforted. But, it is what it is. I'm registered with the local carer's charity, I exercise daily, either alone or with a friend, and I am kept busy with my children's hobbies and school life.
Any hints for a very scared, weary and sad newbie to all this? Thank you.
Any hints for a very scared, weary and sad newbie to all this? Thank you.