My husband who is only 48 years old received a diagnosis of young onset dementia last week from an excellent and very sensitive consultant. We have a 7 year old daughter and whilst I feel devastated it didn't come as a complete shock because of our increasing difficulties over the last three years. One of the hardest parts I am coping with is my husband's indifference to and frequent lack of interest in our daughter which I know he sadly cannot help.
Our daughter seems to be coping quite well and is talking to me and other family members about her father's illness. I have felt that being honest with her from the outset was a better way to explain what is happening but at a level to suit her age. I am making sure that I spend quality time with her and I am trying hard to keep her life and activities as uninterrupted as possible. Has anyone experience of caring for a husband who is ill and a young child at the same time and could offer any advice. Many thanks.
Our daughter seems to be coping quite well and is talking to me and other family members about her father's illness. I have felt that being honest with her from the outset was a better way to explain what is happening but at a level to suit her age. I am making sure that I spend quality time with her and I am trying hard to keep her life and activities as uninterrupted as possible. Has anyone experience of caring for a husband who is ill and a young child at the same time and could offer any advice. Many thanks.