Hubby is a sweet and gentle soul. And, as we all know, repeats questions almost with the same breath over and over again. I've been using your suggestions of "using the same answer words", "keep it simple", "remember it's the disease", "change the subject" (which sometimes doesn't work by the way). But, sometimes I am at the short end of MY stick. This has happened twice to me now in the last month as far as my lashing out in frustration and anger. He doesn't deserve it. He's done nothing wrong. Do I walk out of the room telling him I need some time to think? Like in AlAnon? Or any other suggestions?
You're right that trying to change the subject doesn't always work until something major changes the course of his thinking. My Dad was in the hospital this weekend and he kept saying it's time for him to change clothes and head to the dining room [at his IL/AL complex]... no matter how many times I told him he was in the hospital, again he would say the same thing. It wasn't under the meal tray was delivered by the hospital that Dad was finally distracted. Whew.
I think walking out of the room is the best bet if he doesn't need to be watched continually..... unless he following you around the house. Sometimes I can re-direct Dad by turning on the Weather Channel as he is fascinated with the weather in different areas.
Yes, how true you are. He and I are a blended family. I'd bounce off my problems to him; and he'd give thoughts. Now ----- well, not very much any more because he doesn't remember families too much any more. And your right, sometimes, he can't figure out how to even put on a shirt. Hugs to you.
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