Hi Jen! I hope it will bring some comfort to you that everything you describe is pretty typical, as is your frustration! As Joe’s brain changes, he is probably struggling with fear and anxiety as well as trying to come up with solutions to problems he feels he should be able to fix, like cutting off buttons. My Mom spent an afternoon a few years ago cutting off the tags of every piece of clothing in her closet because the shirt she was wearing at the time was itchy! I’m glad that you are calling his doctor - there are meds to help with anxiety and once that is lessened, you will figure out coping techniques that will work to handle things like showering and getting dressed. Can I recommend the book “The 36-Hour Day” by Nancy Mace? It definitely helped me! Sending hugs and support!❤️

Hugs and prays. The hygiene part is very difficult. Sometimes i feel like I have run a marathon by the time i have him cleaned and dressed. Hugs and prayers.

Hugs and Prayers toileting hygiene and dressing are the pits. Every day I pray for patience every day I end up being short or yelling every night I pray for forgiveness because I feel horrible and the next day we do it again ...We are only human I hope your Dr. can help. I finally got Ativan for mom . I've only used it twice for really bad moments bit it helps I'm sure they will find what will work for him. Praying they can help asap before Holiday starts
Hugs Hugs Hugs Hugs your not alone !!!

Hugs for you, Jen. That does sound very difficult. I am glad you are seeking help from the experts. Unfortunately, there is a limit on what we can handle. We still have moments that are the pits but then there are peaceful enjoyable moments as well. It seems our biggest battles are over changing clothes, the bathroom and hygiene. I tend to lose patience first in spite of praying and trying to be calm. Hope the doctor can help you!

bathroom and hygiene are big headaches. I feel kindred pain with you.
My dad gets mad if I stand in bathroom but when I don't he doesn't wipe, flush or was hands. Better yet throws pad on the floor! There's days I think I'm losing it too.