This blog is about life with my husband who was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's and Frontal Lobe Dementia in 2008. He was 64 at the time although now, knowing more about the disease, Alzheimer's was present many, many years ago, which is why early detection is so important. As you read the blog the character "Al" that I created in 2008, represents the way that Alzheimer's is invading our daily lives.
There is an archive tab further down the page that starts from the beginning of our journey.

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri has been struggling with what could be depression and anxiety. She has not tried medication yet, a lot of anxiety around that LOL. She is however, trying light therapy, and she actually thinks it is helping. Sheri thinks it probably normal to be somewhat depressed living in a circumstance like her's. What about you? What is your secret weapon to take care of yourself?
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8 comments:

  1. AnonymousFebruary 19, 2014 at 6:49 AM

    I go to an "early onset " dementia support group once monthly. Everyone there has a loved one whose disease struck at a younger age. I look forward to the camaraderie. The group meets at a restaurant, so we have dinner together. Sally

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  2. Jim Devore - Bob's high school friend.February 19, 2014 at 6:01 PM

    In the NY Times yesterday they had the following article that covers some things. It's titled "Caring for the Caregivers." http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/02/17/caring-for-the-alzheimers-caregiver/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=0

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  3. LoriFebruary 19, 2014 at 11:51 PM

    For the last few days I kept wondering how people do this without falling into depression. Is it even possible?. I think the anxiety is a given. My husband tonight ( for the first time) did not know who I was. He knew that he knew me-- but didnt know how. I never thought that I would be going through this at age 51.. But- here we are. I don't have a "secret weapon" .......yet......

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    Replies
    1. SheriMay 21, 2014 at 5:34 AM

      Lori, Thank you for your feedback, I hope you continue to stay strong.

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  4. Dahlias4daysFebruary 20, 2014 at 1:42 AM

    I find that support groups with a common experience are amazing and irreplaceable!
    AND, taking time each day for ones self, and once a week, longer time- unburdened.
    We tend to have a story in our heads that a " good wife, or good caretaker " wouldn't share responsibility for our spouses looking after. Forget that. You cannot be " good " without self time.
    And, by the way, small dose antidepressants can be a God send, just saying....

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  5. grammabebeFebruary 20, 2014 at 10:05 AM

    yes consider a small dose of an antidepressant and the light therapy is good and hopefully you can find a support group that works into your schedule- it is important - Praying for you

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    Replies
    1. SheriMay 21, 2014 at 5:34 AM

      Thank you for your feed back grammabebe :)

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