Home » Caregiver Forum » Discussions » I live with my 74-year-old dad and my two…
livn4mygirls
Give a Hug
The smell permeates all of our clothes. He is a heavy smoker but alot of the odor is just unclean. He has multiple health conditions, broken neck(neuro intact), atrial fib, pacemaker, emphysema. But he is capable of doing most things for himself. However he sleeps most of the days away. He does nothing or very little to help housework. I do about 95% of everything but I also raise 2 girls by myself and work full time at a very stressful job. My nerves are fried. Sometimes I don't know whether I should be concerned or if this is drama and/or laziness.I don't know whether to push him some or just take over. But I feel like I can't keep up wearing this many hats on my own. My own health has been very poor over the last 3 yrs, including GYN surgeries, blood transfusions and autoimmune diseases that make my body attack itself. Sometimes I feel like I'm going to break under the pressure of it all. I was only able to get back on my feet 4 months ago. Is it just me?
Print
Email
Add Your Comment »
arose4yu
Mar 11, 2010
He may be showing signs of dementia which you should alert his doctor to. If in fact he is showing signs, he can be put on Aricept or Namenda to help slow down the progress. Trust me, you'll want to get him on that ASAP it only gets worse from there if you don't. Usually when elders start neglecting their hygiene it's a sign but it could also mean other factors so it's best to seek medical help. When my mom first was diagnosed, I brushed it off as her not caring or just being old. Normal aging does not involve that. I was ignorant to the disease. You are definitely in the right place to ask. I think that in your situation if you are the only one, you really need to look into hiring some outside help. I don't want to bombard you with information but the first place you should go to is your nearest eldercare or senior center and ask for help in finding resources. You can find one by going to your state's website and navigating to the Dept of Aging.
Like this (0)
Report this Post
Please stay on topic or start a new discussion.
Have a question? Just need to vent? Find answers and support from the real experts - other caregivers!
How do you deal with a narcissistic mother? Answered 10 mins ago by playagrandma
Wellness and Nutrition Comment 10 mins ago by cricketinafp
What do we do with the money from the sale of the home, how can we protect it? Answered 12 mins ago by igloo572
Help, I have a hoarding father and I want to move out of my own place. Comment 23 mins ago by Sleepy
Grossed Out? Need to Vent? Just caught Mom using my toothbrush to comb her hair! Comment 28 mins ago by lildeb
More From The Community »
Sign up for our newsletter and receive practical tips and support for caregivers
Like AgingCare.com on Facebook
To use this feature, you must be a member.
Just what a caregiver needs to make life a little easier. Join AgingCare.com for FREE!
Access the Caregiver Forum
Answers and support from caregivers and elder care experts.
Receive Helpful Caregiving Information
Articles on providing care, senior health, financial and legal matters, and more.
Create Your Personal Account
Customize your experience to see what is important to you and your unique caregiving situation.
Already a Member?
Login to your account
Screen name or email address:
Password: