Finding the Way Through Stage 2

windrivereagle is Caregiver and member of AFA's Young-Onset Advisory Board Caregiver Husband's caregiver and member of AFA's Young-Onset Advisory Boar I am currently a stay-at-home mom. I am also caring full-time for my... Send Message Subscribe: windrivereagle

Sunday, June 22, 2008
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I find myself navigating through Stage 2 dilemas on a wing and a prayer. The decision I am now faced with is how to care for Jim when I return to school in the fall. He has been working as a varsity high school coach the past year and loves it. He's fullfilling his life-long dream. He's not able...

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Untitled Comment
Sue
Monday, June 23, 2008 at 11:19 AM

Thanks so much for your post and welcome to our community. Facing the different stages of Alzheimer's can be scary and frustrating. But there are many resources out there to help you as a caregiver and your loved one.

It sounds like you are on the right track with adult daycare. There are in-home and facility options, its a matter of availability, preference, budget.

Don't forget to take care of yourself as well. It is so important for caregivers to have support for themselves.

Looking forward to more posts from you - it sounds like you and your husband great people.

All the best, sue

re: Untitled Comment
windrivereagle
Monday, June 23, 2008 at 12:46 PM

Thanks, Sue. It is step by step and moment by moment. I appreciate your encouragement.

Adult Day Care
Duane
Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 02:42 PM

This would be an excellent choice for both yoU and Jim. In Florida, we have some great places and I speak from experience. My wife (15 years with AD) has attended a day

care center for almost two years. She has been in late stage for 6 years so it is a little

different than your situation but it works.

Just a couple of precautions - some day care centers will not let people with agressive tendencies stay at their facilities, and Jim may not like it at first. Usually they become accustomed the the surroundings and then it is like going to "work". Make sure the center has lots of activities and good interaction with the staff. Sounds like he will do

fine at a center as you stated about the coaching. Good luck with your journey and I will stress what Sue said. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF.

re: Adult Day Care
motes
Thursday, November 06, 2008 at 09:55 AM

I care for my mother in law who has AD and has lived with us for 11 years. At the beginning of this journey the idea of a "day care" was offensive for this proud intelligent lady but now it is a wonderful haven. The employees at the center have provided the relief that I needed from providing daily care. Good luck as you try to work and care for your family member, it is no small task. Take care of yourself because the length of the journey can be long.

re: re: Adult Day Care
windrivereagle
Thursday, November 06, 2008 at 10:16 PM

Thanks, Motes. Pride is a big issue with Jim, as well. The thing is, this disease robs people of their dignity. It's a cruel disease. I know what you mean about long-term care. I try not to do more than 1 day at a time or I get depressed. I am thankful for our children, my dog and most of all, Jesus.

re: Adult Day Care
windrivereagle
Thursday, November 06, 2008 at 10:09 PM

Thanks, Duane. I am trying to work something out where Jim would be a "volunteer" at a daycare facility. Sorry it took so long to get back to you. I didn't realize you posted a comment.

re: re: Adult Day Care
Duane Wallace
Thursday, November 06, 2008 at 10:42 PM

What ever works is the important thing. You need time for yourself

Just a note: My wife passed away 3 months ago today. It was a blessing for

her but I do miss her so much. We can prepare for the eventuality but when

it comes there is pain

Good luck with your journey and if I can be of help, write me directly

Duane wallacedj@juno.com