DH has MCI and is a frequent golfer.....

Posted by jillemckeon @jillemckeon, 1 day ago

My hubby has MCI and plays golf usually 2-3 a week and so far so good. But as things progress, I was wondering if anyone else can tell me what to possibly expect in terms of how his MCI/Alz will affect his ability to golf. What was your experience? At what point was it clear he can't golf any longer? Many thanks.

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My sweet hubby golfed regularly with an encouraging group of men. As he was quite a good golfer, they really enjoyed golfing with him. When he could no longer drive, they took turns picking him up and bringing him back home. As his functioning deteriorated, they helped him with things such as putting his clubs in the cart, helping him pick the driver instead of the putter, helping him pay for the games, etc. They never quit on him even though his body and mind continued to do so. Finally, the weather played a part in his last games as it became too cold and miserable to play, and the golfing slowed down more and more until it stopped completely. The men still came by to visit for awhile...some eventually had their own health problems, one died, one moved to another state, and some of them could not bear watching the decline of their friend - and I understood.
The actions of these kind men spoke volumes to me about caring for someone and meeting his needs while putting aside the aspect of competition. They made up games to play to make it fun for all. Later I found out that they also realized this was the only time I had for respite to regroup and run a few errands without worrying about or managing him, so they also helped take care of me....and I will always be grateful for their compassion for both of us.
This may not answer your question....but it brought back some priceless memories for me. Hope your dear one's golf continues for a very long time, and that his friends become encouragers along the journey.
A big hug to you for thinking ahead......(I forgot to add that sometimes I went with him and drove the cart while he enjoyed swinging the clubs....more precious memories of us - now only for me.)

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Profile picture for teacher502 @teacher502

My sweet hubby golfed regularly with an encouraging group of men. As he was quite a good golfer, they really enjoyed golfing with him. When he could no longer drive, they took turns picking him up and bringing him back home. As his functioning deteriorated, they helped him with things such as putting his clubs in the cart, helping him pick the driver instead of the putter, helping him pay for the games, etc. They never quit on him even though his body and mind continued to do so. Finally, the weather played a part in his last games as it became too cold and miserable to play, and the golfing slowed down more and more until it stopped completely. The men still came by to visit for awhile...some eventually had their own health problems, one died, one moved to another state, and some of them could not bear watching the decline of their friend - and I understood.
The actions of these kind men spoke volumes to me about caring for someone and meeting his needs while putting aside the aspect of competition. They made up games to play to make it fun for all. Later I found out that they also realized this was the only time I had for respite to regroup and run a few errands without worrying about or managing him, so they also helped take care of me....and I will always be grateful for their compassion for both of us.
This may not answer your question....but it brought back some priceless memories for me. Hope your dear one's golf continues for a very long time, and that his friends become encouragers along the journey.
A big hug to you for thinking ahead......(I forgot to add that sometimes I went with him and drove the cart while he enjoyed swinging the clubs....more precious memories of us - now only for me.)

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@teacher502 There are beautiful people in the world inside and out - what a gift your husband's golfing buddies gave to him and you. Thank you for sharing.
Best,

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Hello:
With my husband, he just stopped golfing, even though I encourage him to set tee times, he hasn't golfed in probably 2 years.
This is not the only hobby he has stopped; no more fishing or painting either. 😥
My husband has bvFTD.
All the best to you. 🪻

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I'm 82 and not (yet) cognitively impaired (as far as I'm aware-LOL). I've never been a very good golfer (average at best) but enjoy the game, regardless of how well I play. But I consider golf a social activity...80% camaraderie and 20% golf, so as long as his partners enjoy his company (and vice versa), it would be good to continue.

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