One year in and struggling

I took care of my mom during her long journey with dementia. Here is what helped me:
1. Called upon siblings to have her at their homes for BREAKS - 1-2 week time frame - so my husband and I could have vacation time.
2. Utilized local memory care facilities that had empty rooms for short stay visits, reason same as above.
3. Utilized local memory care activity centers on a regular basis - i.e. 9-11:30 on Tuesday a memory care group, supervised of course. would provide arts/crafts, etc. for respite care.
4. It took me too long to decide that I could not DO IT ALL for my mom and placed her in a memory care facility 24/7.

In hindsight, I should have opted for a memory care facility much sooner than I did. Of course the COST is the biggest factor, but if, like my mom, planning and funding for such an event is there, use it sooner, not later. I still visited my mom regularly, worked with the staff, etc.

In response to the post by @anything4him, first, I want to say how sorry I am for you and your husband. I'm glad you are willing to share your struggles with those of us who post.

When my husband became totally dependent on me, and I became responsible for taking care of him, I turned to meal delivery services. After trying various companies, the service that I chose is CookUnity; and I cannot say enough about how they have saved me from despair. Not only does that company provide fresh meals prepared by chefs, but they provide a culinary experience that makes every meal a pleasurable experience for my husband and me. (As known by those of you who suffer from a serious illness or chronic pain--or who provide caregiving to someone who has become housebound--moments of joy are rare.)

Aside from doing something like subscribing to a food delivery service, hiring household help is also advisable if your budget allows that.

Most important, stay connected through Mayo Clinic. Hearing other people's stories make your own journey bearable.

Sending hugs and good wishes,
George's Wife

@georgescraftjr George’s wife - Thank you! I will check out that service.

@anything4him

Here's a link to different food delivery services:
https://consumerrating.org/meal-delivery/cook-unity-comparison/

@georgescraftjr I've never heard of that particular delivery service. I am still recovering 5 months out from surgery. I know I need to eat better. Difficult to do for one person as well as the shopping. I'll check it out. Thank you.

@nannybb

Here's a link to various delivery services. If you see negative reviews for CookUnity, please don't get discouraged. There are tons of positive reviews, too.

Good luck with your recovery.

Hugs,
George's Wife
https://consumerrating.org/meal-delivery/cook-unity-comparison/