Dan - are you able to participate in a spouse and caregiver group, even remotely? Other peoples' stories may help you adjust to your "new normal" when the time comes for memory care.
Another question - have you checked out the facilities available near you and found one or more that are acceptable? It is important to plan for this, because any health crisis, for either of you, can change your plans in an instant. This happens more often than you would think - if one of you ends up in the hospital, it would be good to be "on the list" for your chosen facilities, not just accepting one blindly because you don't have time or ability to visit and evaluate.
You are on the most difficult journey I can imagine! I was one of the caregivers for my Mom, but thankfully she was able to participate in her care choices and I had the support of my dear sister.
Also, when my Mom and mother-in-law went into skilled care, then hospice, it really wasn't "life without" because we visited, provided the extras that the facility did not, took meals together...the biggest difference was that we were able to sleep without "one ear open" all night, and to actually be present when visiting instead of thinking of the next task waiting to be done.
Hugs to you for taking this long journey with your wife.
Sue
Thanks for your kind words but I’m having a real hard time even thinking about not going to bed at night without my partner of 56 years. I agree with everything you said but I’m just having a hard time thinking about the time we won’t be together. 🙁