My 89 y/o Father is currently living with us and in the very early stages of dementia. They are not certain how much is beginning dementia and how much is due to the fact that he can't hear! And refuses to get a hearing aid.
He actually is doing pretty well; considering we just moved him here from another state - all strange surroundings.
He decided, on his own, that he would not drive here - a good decision, I think. But his memory is gone; he can't remember five minutes later what you told him or he told you. He can no longer write checks or balance his checkbook; but he is aware of that.
We have people from "Home Instead" come 3 days a week to help him to his laundry (I work full time and am running a lot with my teen-age son); they also take him out for lunch; to get a haircut; to the bank; whatever; whereever he wants to go.
I could not have him here without help like that.
It is sad to see my strong, former Army Officer father - slowly decline.
Best of luck to all who are caring for elderly parents, in-laws, etc.
__________________  Mommy to Lucy, Ringo, and Matthew |