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What is the best thing to say?
My husband was diagnosed with dementia over a year ago. He nearly daily asks when he forgets things or when he is upset with himself, "What is wrong with me?" Honesty seems too make him even more anxious, like if I say yes, you forgot that or you have dementia. I know that might be too blunt, and I have attempted to say to him something like, what do you need for me or
what's going on? But he's unable to respond to that or even have a conversation without again getting more angry. I'd appreciate any advice as to what I could say that could be kind, tolerant and helpful. Thank you in advance.
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You are very welcome! I will respond to anyone and I also will take constructive criticism when needed.
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Dear Captain. You will get upset sometimes. As humans who love and are caregivers get frustrated. My technique is redirecting. For instance if my husband is upset about something. I usually say "What is causing you to be upset"? How can I help to make it easier for you? Can you explain how you are feeling? Are you anxious, mad, etc. I usually get a comment that makes sense ..but sometimes I am perplexed. I don't give up. I have had 3 people in my family who have or had Parkinsons. It is hard and I lost my Dad in 2018. My brother is in Stage 5 and is in Hospice. He is 67 yo. This disease may potentially effect someone else in my family. But when my spouse was diagnosed that threw me in to despair. I found out twelve day's after my Dad passed. I was suspicious long before that. Sorry so long. Just wanted you to know I have been around this disease for a long time. 🫂