Growing up in a close family, Michele DeSocio learned about the power of love at a very young age and still maintains that she is happiest when with her loved ones. In 1999, she became caregiver to her mom Jean DelCampo. Michele found her voice as an advocate volunteering for Memory People, an online support and awareness group for dementia.

Answers

Question

She saw a knife in the kitchen and said she could take it and cut both of her wrists is this typical behavior?


Lock up all scirrors, knives and sharp objects. Call her dr., explain what is happening. Sounds like she is a danger to herself and to... see more

Question

How to tell Mom about my upcoming respite?


Since your mom will not be happy with these arrangements I would not tell her till the very last minute. Also I agree with using what I... see more

Question

Abuse of caregiver. Advice?


As everyone states find a temporary home for your family ( cats ) from an animal rescue resource and pack up and leave. Go to a women's... see more

Question

Crying and moaning in sleep. Is this common with dementia?


Sounds like she is in pain. Could be constipation, UTI, dental or anything else. Time to call her doctor.

Question

Does anyone know how I can get my Mother (85) to drink more water in a day's time?


How about ice pops, also I've heard mixed some Pedialyte half with water. Helps with electrolytes as well


Question

What have you tried to "communicate" with your aging parent with dementia?


My mom is very late stage and I have found a way to communicate through the magic of music. I have her favorite tunes on an MP3 player and... see more

Question

Mom accusing Daddy of molestation/rape. Any advice ?


I agree, call the doctor. To your mom this is very real, she maybe having hallucinations. She may also have an infection such as a UTI... see more

Question

My Alzheimer's husband says he can't remember the names of people at his company. Any advice?


There is no normal with this disease, only a " New Normal" which is where Dad is at any given time. What is concerning is if he... see more

Question

Mom's weight is down to 85 lbs. What can I do?


My mom recently lost weight. She is in a NH. I make sure she has her favorite food, peanut butter and jelly and a Coke with every... see more

Question

Can nursing home staff make prescription medication changes without consulting patient or the Power Of Attorne...


They may try but they are not supposed to. I have POA for mom and every medication change is passed by me first. I did have to move mom... see more

Question

My Mom's bank wants my name on her account. Could the creditors take money from my Mom's account?


I am Mom's Representative and she is my Ward on the bank account. I have POA

Question

What if your parent is not married, who has to make decisions; the children or siblings?


In my family we the children made the decisions. We also had power of attorney and medical proxy. To be sure I would check with an elder... see more


Question

Is instant anger, swearing, and physically being out of control go with Alzheimers?


My mom went through a most difficult combative stage. The only relief was medication change from a geriatric he ion center stay. She was... see more

Question

Seriously, what can I do about sexual abuse from my father?


Keep him AWAY from the kids. Call the VA for placement ASAP.

Question

I know I have it very easy compared to most caregivers. But I still feel worn out and resentful. How selfish a...


It's so easy for a caregiver to fall into the trap of guilt. Guilt should be banned from your journey. It serves no purpose and drains... see more

Question

How do you handle it?


She may not be diagnosed but I would still ask for a hospice review for comfort care. Can't hurt to have an evaluation and you never... see more

Question

How do I get mom to move in to her new place?


Mom AD Was in a good facility for quite a few years, but as her disease progressed they were no longer able to meet her needs. We had to... see more

Question

I can no longer take care of mom full time and I promised not to put her in a nursing home as long as I could....


Moms best interest comes first. If you no longer can care for her it's ok to place her. You had no idea what you were promising at the... see more

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