Dealing with Dementia

Tonight we spoke about dealing with cancer whilst being a caregiver to someone with dementia. It's a hard and energy-consuming thing to be going through cancer treatment and recovery, let alone being responsible for someone afflicted with dementia.

While this session let off some steam about how to delicately deal the relatives who are open to criticizing, but not willing to help give you a break from it all. We didn't get to any concrete answers, except to decide that we were in agreement that we were not anyone's doormat, we are going to stand up for ourselves and ask for help, whether it be through the family, by outside agencies, or respite care in the community.

Self preservation, and a sense of calm may help to avoid the possibility of getting another critical illness, we have to wear our "big-person" pants and sometimes have those uncomfortable conversations with family members. They may have the luxury of traveling the globe, while you can't even get a day in bed alone, Everyone has the capability to shoulder the care, but some prefer to watch you struggle, and like to criticize it all.

Diplomacy is key, as are tact and compromise when asking for help. Try several ways to illicit a hand, hopefully one will work for you. Speak up for your own health and well being!