Something I didn't realize is: there could be hallucinations and delusions (visual and auditory) and some things were of a sexual nature. Later in the disease they start falling more often - they forget their walker or cane, getting out of bed to go to restroom in the middle of the night,... and they forget how to toilet, so frequent messes in bathroom and/or clothing, don't wash their hands, .... Also trying to find a good, reputable, safe facility for a loved one is extremely difficult. You never really know how a place treats their patients until they are in there. I've been very disappointed in our healthcare system and how our seniors are treated.

*Rarely discuss but should be …. I will first say SANITY for the CareGivers and the need for CareGivers meetings … *Putting all financial , legal and medical papers in order before the end of life .. Making sure there is a durable POA in place . Death It inevitably , but we don’t want to think about it .

Discuss how much it affects the caregiver. We to suffer emotionally

Early on our journey, I did extensive estate planning. I saw the financial nightmare coming at me like a freight train one of the best financial decisions I have made. My wife is on year 10 of her Alzheimer journey. She has been in a facility for 14 months. I physically couldn’t do it anymore. My health was failing as I couldn’t take care of myself. Now I’m with her every day, but don’t have the stressors of the physical care. Still so very hard to watch, but she is content, very relaxed and we will continue to live day by day.. Being involved in two different support groups and having a strong faith is absolutely pivotal for my mental health.

Rarely people will discuss dementia openly and honestly- too emotional. The caregiver/spouse suffers as much as patient- maybe more because we remember....The lack of caregiver support is hard.