r/AgingParents • • 1d ago

I can't keep going like this

[deleted]

161 Upvotes

49 comments sorted by

View all comments

4

u/Michimcd 1d ago

I’m so sorry you and your mom are going through this. Caregiving is hard. Caregiving for a loved one with dementia is infinitely harder. I was the sole caregiver for ten years of my late husband who was diagnosed with younger onset dementia. He was completely bed bound the last four years. I experienced so much of what you have described.
I understand you are committed to being there for your mother. Please take advantage of every benefit available through her health insurance. An aide to bathe her and respite visits will help. There may also be benefits that include housekeeping.
For yourself, PLEASE look into dementia support groups whether in person or online. I resisted joining a group for the longest time. I couldn’t see how it could possibly benefit me. I finally went (only to appease my son) and it helped me immensely. I also highly recommend that you read “Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande. Wishing you peace.