← Return to Caregiver for Spouse with Alzheimers - How can I Survive?

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My heart goes out to you. Being a caregiver myself I would say it is tiring , annoying at times because of the way he talks to me and it is all about him 24/7. Don't get me wrong I am honored to help him and hear the occasional "I love you" . That being said his nasty side comes out and I try to respond positively..but I am human nor am I perfect. So far this has been going on almost 7 year's. I never know what to expect daily. Been married over 52 years. I cannot give up .But I will say it is starting to get to me.Luckily I have cousins and my best friend ever. Stay strong..but don't have something you do for you! I was able to see what my Dad was doing at an Independent Living and I was appalled at the lack of care, neglect and the most ridiculous things they called keeping engaged. They were stringing beads on string. No talking or interaction. I found my father in a fearful state because his roommate screamed at him. My Dad had macular degeneration in both eyes. They had put the man's clothes on my Dad. My Dad had not been shaved he had a BM and he stunk to high heaven. I shaved him and since he needed two people to help him . I asked them to clean him nicely. They put his pants on they were soild with feces. At that point I had had it . I spoke to the Director. What a joke. I live in another state, so my sister took out of his former place. Which was clean and he was always attended for all his needs. My sister got an earful when I returned home. A few days later he ended up in the hospital and never went back.The reason I say this is neglect from a caregiver or dumping him there in the first place. I wish that they would have more things for you to do. It is appalling how no one asked the caregiver and offer things that interest everyone. I think it is money . Mainly the bottom dollar. By the way my sister is watching my brother now. I visited in Febuary and the house is horrible. All three of my loved have or had Parkinsons. I gathered it was a nice place ,but nothing is offered to you and I am so sorry. I do care. So sorry so wordy. Best of wishes to you both. From someone who cares and totally get it. Hugs a and prayers.

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Replies to "My heart goes out to you. Being a caregiver myself I would say it is tiring..."

That sounds like a horrific experience, but I wasn’t aware Independent Living provided much in way of hands on care for the residents. Is your dad now getting a higher level if care? M