Oh, yes, Starling. I agree. I need to know that survival is possible. I don't particularly like what has to be done to survive - the detaching part, the accepting the loss of relationship part, the ignoring all of the horrendous behaviors part, - but neither do I want to end up in a padded cell somewhere.
I thought I had been through some tough emotional times before, and they were extremely difficult. But nothing compares to having a spouse with Alzheimer's Disease. Nothing. We have been dealing with this for at least 5 years now, and I'm still shocked at how mentally, physically, and emotionally destructive it is.
dking I missed the post that your wife passed away. I am so sorry that I did not wish you peace. You are an inspiration to us all. Thank you. Nora
Nora - This is dking's post on his wife's passing - "Change in Caregiver role" - http://thealzheimerspouse.com/vanillaforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=1860