Dementia caregiver challenges
As I have mentioned before, I am a dementia caregiver. My mother in law is suffering from dementia for past three plus more years.
My husband and I sleep in shifts during the night. There are three or more bathroom trips by her and if we are not by her side within a few minutes, then the whole thing has to be removed and she has to be cleaned and dressed. Diapers were used earlier but she now throws it away.
( I know that it is hard for some to read this but it is part of life and I write this for the sake of people who are new to this. I have been confused and relied a lot on internet forums for advice during the early stages)
The talk
Of late, her talk does not convey any meaning. She tries to tell us but all that comes out is a string of meaningless sounds and that too in a tremendous speed. She also gets upset and tries to cry but we change the topic and divert her attention.
Food
Earlier she used to eat very little and was conscious of her diet. Nowadays, she demands food and eats. I used to spoon feed her until a few months ago but she has now regained the ability to eat by herself. Her life now revolves around food and toilet trips. ( maybe life in a circle)
Constant attention
Attention - she demands it. We have our duties like looking after the farm, housework and all. She wants that we should be near her most of the time. I try to be near and login to steemit and she often asks me what I am doing. I tell her and she tells me that I am hurting my eyes in her language. Sometimes, she uses sign language to ask for water. I really feel sorry for all such patients.
I hope some sort of medicine is made to stop such diseases from wrecking the human brain
I thank God for making us both patient. I used to be a lot frustrated but after starting to work on steemit, I feel a lot more composed and strong.
Dementia caregivers can easily be stressed out. It is important to take care of oneself also.
Some of the early signs
- fumbling of words
- inability to do simple things like dressing
- repeating the same action
- mood swings
- inability to eat by oneself
- incoherent speech
- lack of memory
- using bad words even before strangers, forgetting social norm
- lack of wisdom
When these signs had appeared, we had admitted her to a hospital and she was scanned and diagnosed with dementia. Medicines were given as she was a little violent as well but she soon recovered although not completely. She never regained her proper speech and ability to move by herself but at least she is not violent anymore.
I have written this to share the message that caregiving to dementia patients is indeed a challenge but if we become strong inside, then we will be able to face the stormy periods of life.
God helps those who help others.
image source:pixabay