It's my dad. He's 73. Just diagnosed, my mom is a MESS, she has been sick for years and now she is completely thrown off knowing he will no longer be able to take care of her. She refuses to go to a support group, even with me, she refuses to speak to a therapist and she refuses anti anxiety meds. My dad is a sweet loving caring man and I cannot beleve this is happening. The few people I have told think what I used to think about AD, that "people just lose their memories", OMG, they have NO idea and therefore are no help. I have two 4 1/2 year olds and a wonderful husband, I work full time, my sister hardly cares that she has parents and my brother is in RI comfortable being so far removed.
I know this is going to get really bad; I can't even wrap my head around it. It's my dad. My dad!
I'm so sad and I'm so scared. And I can't help either one of them.
Leslie - if you are on Facebook do a search for Memory People. It is a site started by a man with EOAD but they have both those with AD and their caregivers which are usually children or spouses.
Also, have you tried the Alzheimer's Association website? They have forums there too.
If your mom uses the computer I encourage you to have her join us as spouse issues are different than how you deal with it as a child.
First, take a deep breath and try to calm down. I lost my mom and a favorite uncle to this disease and now my DH is so afflicted. So I understand where you are coming from and you have the sympathy of all here for the sad situation you are in especially with family members who decline to help.
Follow the suggestions Charlotte gave you. The ALZ Assn in your area should be able to guide you. And check the web site she suggested. There are sites more suited to your particular circumstances than what is discussed here among spouse/victim situations which are unique.
Others may be along with some suggestions. Good luck as you Sally forth in this awful journey.