I am 43 & caring for my 91 yr old mother. I can't go anywhere because she requires insulin injections & no one else can give them. Hopefully some respite care will get approved through Medicaid soon but they do not cover injections. I am losing my mind.. No other family to help out.
I had to read Paula 2024's message three times to make sure it wasn't me that typed it. I am a diy'er, a loner and 63.I am looking at some home care or home assistance possibilities and even looking into setting up some kind of time exchange group with other caregivers in the area to help each other out, but since we are at the stage where mom doesn't want to be more than 2 feet away from me 24/7, I am not sure it will work out for her. I have no words of wisdom to share, but here's to each of us for doing what we can for our loved ones for as long as we can.
The both of you could check that area out n I would also see if they have any funds with their "Caregiver Time Out program." Their is a time waiting list so the sooner the better to get on it. I waited for about 3 -6 months n now I get a little help n take my mil to a church for 4hrs one day a week. I could take her for 4 days per week yet,t that would be like trying to pull her teeth. I appreciate the one day a week for 4hrs. If u can get her out the door n at a place a couple of times, who knows she may enjoy herself. You really need that break even if it is a few hrs. Good luck.
Thanger, I fully understand the 24/7 thang. Someone told me the reason my mil follows me everywhere is that she feels comfortable with me around as if I am her security blanket. From what you have mention it sounds the same, sorry. I call my mil sometimes my shadow. Yes! It can get very irritating. As other have said, "care-giving is NOT for wussy!" So, keep coming back n go to the topic area if u have not yet called, How are you doing the caregiver" something to that line. & "Grossed out just caught mom brushing her hair with my toothbrush."
Kooski, I feel sometimes packing my own bags n never coming back. Does she Alzheimer or Dementia or just old age n stubbornness.? Not sure you can do anything if she is mentally able to make her own decision. However, I would suggest talking to a social worker n letting them know your concern for her own Safeness n see what they suggest. You still have a life too.
Bigkatie, Good for you for no-one should have to deal with this if it is causing more problems than helping. You can only do so much n you too have your life to live. I am so glad that u took those necessary steps n now can get back to living your own life with your family.
I have been going out of my wits with the mil for when something is wrong with them it seems the Alzheimer's gets worse. At least it seems like the new meds r working but slowly. Hopefully she will get back to her own meanness self.
I hope everyone has a good day today.
Sometimes when it gets to be too much I retreat to my bedroom or watch a movie but that is still not a real substitute for leaving the house. Perhaps you could find a therapist that makes house calls. There are free ones through the City of Los Angeles and I am sure other cities as well. Having someone to speak to and vent, is priceless!
While they do the bath thing, I may sit and read some or just lay down and shut my eyes! Or I may go outside and weed which is very therapeutic for me!
If you live in a house and can afford to get a bird feeder that holds bricks of seeds, that is a lovely way for you both to sit and possible talk about the lovely birds. Those birds can be quite entertaining!
Anyway, if I think of anything else, I will write. God bless you and yours!
I have been living at my Moms house with my husband I take care of my mom she has Dementia for 4 years now. I go crazy sometimes too. She doesn't sit down some days . She tries to help with things but, she doesn't know what she is doing. I have to rewash dishes. can't get her to bath. I feel like my life is at a stand still too. I am 50 my children live in my house with out me.They are all adults 20's. I understand the feeling you are having I have cried too. What helps me is watching comic shows and laughing. good luck and please hang in there Linda
Wish you luck with your search, please keep us posted. May the good Lord bless you!!!