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Meet fellow Caregivers - Introduce yourself
Caregivers | Last Active: Nov 12, 2023 | Replies (707)Comment receiving replies
I'm Diana and caring for a husband diagnosed with Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD). He is 75 and was diagnosed 4 years ago when we noticed his aphasia (inability to find the right word). Since then his communication has deteriorated significantly - finding the right words is a nightmare, he can only read very simple words and only write his name. Both his short and long term memories are being affected and now his balance is becoming precarious - all part of this type of dementia. The "up" side of this dementia: I am becoming VERY good at charades (the word Yellow + sweeping hand motion = banana, FYI).
PLUS my mother was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's about 3 months ago, but we had been seeing changes for the past 2 years.
Essentially, I just needed a place to belong, with people who understand the frustrations.
Replies to "I'm Diana and caring for a husband diagnosed with Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD). He is 75..."
Hello @dianaodecatur Nice to e-meet you here, even under these circumstances. Glad you found Connect! I am Scott and I was the primary caregiver for my wife for 14 years as she fought brain cancer, with many dementia-like symptoms as well as being a secondary caregiver for my MIL who also had FTD. I found Connect while fighting the isolation that so often accompanies caregiving.
Here you will find many fellow caregivers who have broad shoulders, open ears, and are a nonjudgmental group. We also often share hints and tips we have learned from each of our experiences -- and yes we will understand the massive sense of frustration that often comes with caring for a loved one with dementia.
Glad to have you here!
I send you strength, courage, and peace!
Thank you for the encouragement! Frustration and isolation are the truly hard parts and I believe caregivers understand that best!
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Yes, this is the right place to come to belong. I'm caretaker for my sister who so far has the diagnosis of mild dementia. We are having her bathroom equipped with a walk in shower by taking out the bathtub/shower. This group has helped and supported me in figuring out her pain reception. It is on going ........ Glad you joined us. The others will help you more than I will as I am new to this and am on the early side of care giving.