So my mom has dementia and seems to be really depressed. She is on meds for her memory but they don’t seem to be doing much. Last week we finally got her into a Memory Care facility. That’s great because she falls a lot and I was not able to watched her 24/7. Every now and then I would get a call from my mom upset about her mind, upset she is not getting better, and saying she wished she were dead. My question is, is this normal? She was officially diagnosed in November but it’s been coming for years. I just don’t know what to do or how to handle this. Any advice would help.
them down. For example, if mom's son comes to see her about one afternoon/week, and you aren't sure when he's coming next and she becomes anxious and wants to see him at 7:00 AM one morning, don't try to get into a lengthy explanation about his schedule. Just say something like, "he just called to say he has a Dr. app't. and will be a little late." You can say that all morning, then you may have to add, "He called again and told us to be sure to tell you that he has to go to the Lab and then to the drug store, so he'll be here as soon as he can." And so on. Finally, if he doesn't show up that day, tell her he called to apologize and couldn't make it, but will be here for sure tomorrow. If you just told her right away that he couldn't come see her today, she would forget and be anxious and ask you over and over. This way, it settles her down for a bit. But then, don't let mom find out that her son wasn't at the Dr., the Lab, and the Pharmacy. Just in case mom remembers to ask him about it, tell him you told her that when he comes in. People with dementia are usually very paranoid and apprehensive. If they find out you were "lying" to them, they will not trust you again for a long time.
My heartfelt compassion goes out to you. Understand that your mom is going through a major transition. Be understanding and loving as much as you can. Supplement her diet with protein powder shakes, use almond milk with ice cream. Amino Acids improve our neurotransmission in our brain. Have your moms thyroid checked. Hypothyroidism can memic dementia. Google natural supplements good for the brain. I use buried treasure`s - added attention brain support supplement along with probiotics for my mom. Start off with very small dosages to acclimate your moms immunal system. Try to offer a clean diet as much as possible. Keep your mom well hydrated with alkaline water. Please research all medications being given to your mom for side effects, that may cause a lot of the negative symptoms. A balanced diet makes a world of difference. Be patient and put yourself in your moms position for understanding.
Your challenges are not easy. I fully understand and deal with these challenges daily. Look for senior support programs like Area on Aging ect
Many Blessings! Stay Encouraged!
Adrienne :o)
Just hold on tight, you CAN do this, and she will take time to adjust.
Gen
Found out from the AL that she called 911 because she thought she hadn’t heard from me in “weeks” and I was hurt and in trouble. This is a major roller coaster and honestly I hope no one has to ride this.
Gen
Try a good quality vitamin mineral supplement with plenty of water for needed hydration.
Read labels to avoid consuming unhealthy preservatives. Also, research side effects of medications that may have been prescribed.
Stay encouraged and be knowledgeable about all foods and beverages your loved one consumes.
Many Blessings,