← Return to Caregivers: Early Onset Alzheimer's, diagnosis age 19 to 65

Discussion
Comment receiving replies
@greff

My wife was diagnosed with Early onset Alzheimer's at the age of 54. She has been dealing with this disease for 5 years now. She is in stage 6 currently. She doesn't remember her children most of the time. She doesn't remember that we are married and have been for 39 years. Her cognitive decline has greatly diminished, as well as her ability to perform simple tasks. I bathe her for the most part and cannot leave her sight. Actually, she doesn't allow me to leave her sight. Which is just fine with me. My wife has incontinence issues but not to the point of wearing diapers full time. My wife doesn't have behavioral issues and I give all the glory and credit to God/Jesus as I pray often that He will keep her calm. We are very compatible. One thing I've learned is that I don't have to be a control freak and not allow her to repeat activities that she has already done recently. For example, my wife might take anywhere from 2 to 5 showers in a 2 to 3 hour period of time daily. I don't tell her she already took one. Because she has no idea that she did. Plus, it's no big deal. I just role with what she wants to do ( within limits). Saves a ton of anxiety and heart ache. My biggest support is God. He is my strength, my hope, and my life. I hope your journey is a blessed one. Even though this disease is an ongoing grief process, it can still bring many moments of joy and happiness. God bless.

Jump to this post


Replies to "My wife was diagnosed with Early onset Alzheimer's at the age of 54. She has been..."

@greff - you sound like such a kind and compassionate husband and your wife is so fortunate to have you. It also sounds like your faith gives you tremendous strength. Thank you for sharing your journey, it helps to know that 5 years is possible and that the moments can be beautiful.