Hi, Diana -

I agree - only those who are in an active caregiving situation really understand the challenges that we face as we care for loved ones. I'd also suggest that because of our situation, we have to give ourselves extra care and support as we deal with the negative emotions that you've mentioned that are often such an integral part of caregiving.

I've found that by trying to make choices about Mom's situation based on love, I eliminate some of the emotional ups and downs related to caregiving. That's important, because I find that giving in to emotions such as anger, guilt, etc. drain my energy reserves, thus impacting my caregiving abilities and my own mental, emotional and physical health.

So I'd strongly encourage you to give yourself some slack emotionally as you deal with all of the caregiving issues. I'm sure you are trying to make the right decisions for the right reasons, and doing the best job that you can in your situation. Give yourself credit for caring enough to take on the caregiving role! And give yourself extra credit for caring enough to try to do what is best for your mom! And most importantly, give yourself a hug and take care of yourself!

Dorian

Hi, Ferni,

Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer's disease isn't an easy assignment and often, it is a new (albeit very important) responsibility that we have to figure out how to do one day at a time (and every day is different). So with that said, I hope you will keep reading and writing on this website about what is happening in your caregiving experiences, and also seek some mentors who have been through the caregiving experience to help guide you on this journey.

Take care!

Dorian