DH dx'd 6 yrs. ago - doing very well, except very short-term memory. In last couple of weeks, I've discovered he does NOT remember his first marriage. She had MS and he cared for her at home until having to place her in a NH, where she died in 1971. We have been married almost 35 years and we talk (or did) openly about his first marriage and how he cared for her, etc. He does know his son (a neurologist), who lives 3,000 mi. away. But just does not remember his son's mother. Could it be because of all the unpleasant memories of caring for her and having to place her in NH? It seemed to just happen all of a sudden. He remembers things from before and after - but not during their marriage. Strange.
Yes, it is normal. My husband made a comment one time that if he did not see someone in a long time, he often forgot them. She has been gone 37 years, that qualifies as a long time.
Someone may be along who can give a better technical description of what is happening in the brain but it comes down to which part of the brain the plaque and tanges have damaged. There really doesn't seem to be a specific protocol for the disease on what they can remember and not remember.
Vickie, picture paper clips in a pile, and some are touching on the ends and some are on the sides. One slips out and is by itself. That is how the memories seem to go. One paper clip at a time - with no rhyme or reason for which one escapes the pile first. Sometimes two twist together which are not related at all, but they will think that they are. You are very fortunate that your husband has retained so much for so long! I know that seems wrong to say, but my husband was diagnosed less than two years ago, and can't talk, can not remember who I am, or our children's names, and can barely feed himself. So time is fleeting for me. Just remember that you can't help him re-remember. Just try to help him retain what he still has....with pictures, videos, and just talking about the things that matter. I hope this helps.
Therrja and Mary, thank you so very much for your thoughts.
I know I am very fortunate that he is doing so well. He takes care of himself with most things for which I am grateful. He does get physically (and mentally) sick when we plan a trip. I've had to cancel so many - I've given up on that!