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NewHope101 Asked July 2013

Can my dad, with dementia, be sad without knowing why?

My mother died almost a month ago with cancer. They had been in assisted living together for 4-1/2 years. We took him to her funeral, but he hardly speaks of her. Although he mingles with the other residents (which he didn't do so much when Mother was alive), the administrator there think that my dad knows "something" is missing, but does not know what. How can Iwe make him "happier?"

themiddleone Jul 2013
You may not be able to make him happier. There comes a point when the goal is simply to care for them, love them, and make sure the needs are met. Do those things you know to do. It is a hard attitude to take because we are wired from the beginning to do everything we can to please our parents. But, there comes a point, and you have to decide when you have reached that point; when the loved one just needs to be cared for and protected. They may not be able to show it but that will bring the loved one much comfort. And at the end of the journey, knowing you were able to comfort your loved one will be your comfort.

themiddleone Jul 2013
You may not be able to make him happier. There comes a point when the goal is simply to care for them, love them, and make sure the needs are met. Do those things you know to do. It is a hard attitude to take because we are wired from the beginning to do everything we can to please our parents. But, there comes a point, and you have to decide when you have reached that point; when the loved one just needs to be cared for and protected. They may not be able to show it but that will bring the loved one much comfort. And at the end of the journey, knowing you were able to comfort your loved one will be your comfort.

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