Member-only story
Dementia Sucks
My mother’s diagnosis of early onset dementia was not a shock to us. It was something that we really had to push her to figure out what was going on. Once the diagnosis was given, it was almost a relief for us. We weren’t just imagining things; there actually was a problem.
Now, six years later, the struggles are increasing. My dad is stressed out, trying to take care of her and manage every aspect of their lives. The only time he gets a break to breathe and relax is when a family member comes to visit. Luckily, my sister and her husband live close so they try to go by a couple times during the week.
But, it’s the little things that are the hardest.
My phone calls with my dad can no longer be one-on one. She is very paranoid that people are talking about her so he has to put the calls on speaker just so she doesn’t get upset. The conversations tend to be her asking questions that break my heart.
“So, has _____ found a job?”
“Yes, mom. He’s been working for the same company as my husband for about six months now.”
“Is ______ in school?”
“Yeah. He graduates from high school in a couple of months.”
They’re simple questions, but questions that she asks every single time we talk. As hard as it is, I have to remind myself that right now at least…