Good evening@kimkeith, my name is Chris and I am currently facing the very same situation. Actually, I am very happy to meet you because I think we can possibly help each other with the challenging issues that begin to appear when even mild cognitive impairment issues threaten an otherwise wonderful new relationship.

Here is an example from a couple of days ago. We were headed to Rochester, MN for an appointment at the Mayo Clinic. About five miles down the road, I realized I couldn't find my cell phone. We had to turn around and go back to find it. In the process of packing and trying to make sure I had all of my forms, notes, and medications in preparation for my appointment, I lost track of my phone. What made it worse was that when we got to the house, he called my phone to "hear" where it was. Wouldn't you know it, it was in my overnight bag which was already in the car.

And that is just one occasion. In any given day, we may have several "memory incidents". Also, because of my neuropathic pain, and numbness in my feet, sometimes I just cannot drive to my therapy appointments. He has to stop whatever he is doing to take me and then find something to do for an hour. He now calls himself......" just a transporter".

Neither of us wants to damage our wonderful relationship. So here are some things we are trying.
1. I got a referral for a series of tests from a psychologist. He came to the presentation of the results and found it very helpful.
2. We are still working on a way to maintain a joint calendar so we don't forget an appointment. This is a tough one and we are hoping to do better.
3. I am seeing a Behavioral Therapist to learn how to do things like manage my medications. She has helped me set up a system that keeps me on track "most" of the time. However, when I miss an important medication, we both pay the price. He has said he cannot be responsible for medications.
4. We are on a waitlist for a "couple" therapist which should begin in a few weeks. That can open some doors and keep us on an even keel more often.
5. I want him to know that I am not taking him for granted or depending on him to be responsible for my well-being. I picked up a pamphlet at Mayo about caregiving entitled "Taking care of yourself". He tells me he gets very stressed when it becomes obvious that I am struggling and looking to him for assistance.
6. Finally, we say goodnight with backrubs. We both love them and it is the perfect way to end the day.

Please let me know if any of these activities have value or need more explanation. Perhaps you can share some of your findings with me if you are comfortable doing so........

May you be safe, protected and free from inner and outer harm.
Chris