So sorry you are dealing with this. Nothing prepares us for this journey. Each family and social group is different and it is hard to know how much and when to share.

Working with a talented therapist might be something to consider. Helped me greatly to unpack the feelings: the loss, grief, anger, etc. This is a grieving process you are going through -- the slow painful loss of what was, what might have been and your new reality. Having others to help you through this -- be they very understanding and close friends, family, a religious person (priest/rabbi, etc.), and/or therapists -- is key. Trying to do this solo or to "hide it all" will just exhaust you and one cannot just hold this all in.

Having a support group for you, for your mental health and well being is imperative. If they are true friends -- not just acquaintances you keep up a mask for -- your true friends will be there for you and you need to let them in. They love you and would want to help; even if that is just listening to you vent, cry or yell.

Hugs and know you are not alone. There are local support groups in addition to these "blog-type" groups. Hope you find a good fit with such a group. And hope your true friends can help support you.

Why waste the energy hiding it from your friends? If they are truly your friends you will need them for support.
I feel I will not host any more social gatherings, and limit attending social get-togethers based on circumstances. Sometimes it's just not worth it, since I don't enjoy myself worrying about what my husband will do next.
All the best. 🫂

Please do not hide this from friends or family; it is nothing to be ashamed of any more than having cancer is to be ashamed of. It is a disease process, a cruel one as it robs you.

Of course you miss your mutual relationship, as a long term marriage is a huge part of life for a long term couple and each individual. The changes are going to be rough and life as you know it will happen - and you will adjust, but be good to yourself so you can get through it in one piece.

You must not try to go this alone. If you have many friends, and they are true friends they will support you through this new reality you are attempting to live. You may find you are not the only one dealing with this disease, either.

I’m fairly new to dealing with my husband’s cognitive impairment and am slowly discovering a few things that seem to be helping me:
1 ) RADICAL ACCEPTANCE
Yes, these changes are my new reality. I can resist the changes and be miserable or try to gracefully accept them and move forward- one day at a time.
2 ) Time for SELF CARE
I need to make daily choices, create time to take care of myself too- especially my own physical, mental, emotional and spiritual HEALTH and WELLBEING.

**Included with this self care is remembering I am more than a wife and caregiver. Getting out and connecting with other people requires extra effort but RENEWS my spirit- and helps prevent resentments**

Friends are what caregivers need for support. Don't hide it.