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My husband is 94 years old and has severe dementia. I am caring for him at home.I'm 75 years old. We have been married 52 years. My husband is constantly asking about his Dad. I tell him he is fishing in Florida. He keeps demanding that I get him touch with his older brother. My husband is the last living member of his immediate family. I am at my wits end. He just now was pounding on the TV screen wanting Andy Griffith to assist him. Help!!!!!!!
tiger1

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I agree with IsntEasy on all counts. You are handling it as well as it can be handled. Also, discuss your husband's escalating agression with his doctor. And take care of yourself!
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Wow... i thought i had it bad with my 84 year old mom also with dimentia, asking about recently deceased dad. I wish i had words of advice... all i can. Say is u r not alone! There seems to be no experts with any good answers... all i can say is distraction, distraction, distraction. Change the subject! My prayers r with you.
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I think you're handling as well as it can be handled. It would be cruel to explain that his loved ones are dead. It would only further frustrate him and likely wouldn't have any impact on the number of times a day (or an hour) that he asks after them.
What I find concerning about your question is that your husband has gone beyond just repeatedly asking to "demanding" and "pounding." I've seen so many sad cases where a husband who was loving and gentle over a long marriage became violent or verbally abusive in the ravages of dementia. Please talk to your husband's doctor about the details of his behavior when he is frustrated.
And, be mindful of how caring for your husband is impacting your health, too. Don't wait for a crisis to force you get help in caring for him. Be proactive and have plans in place.
Even if you feel you're OK for now in taking care of him, be sure to schedule breaks for yourself where either he or you are out of the house, so you can focus on your own interests and well-being.
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