WHO IS THIS..???

Who is this person inside my Mom?
She doesn't even know me? How can that be...I am her DAUGHTER!!
She was always the kindest nicest person everyone loved her, how can she be doing all these
terrible things to the people who are trying to take care of her? Oh gosh, she is embarassing not
only me, but if she could see herself she would be MORTIFIED!!

I can't even tell you how many times these questions are asked of me. It is so hard for the family members of loved ones of Alzheimer's residents. They turn into people that they don't even know. It is sad for everyone. Not only does the resident need love and support, but also the family members need it as much if not more.

There are alot of support groups out there. If you go to one and do not feel comfortable, go to another until you find one that you are relaxed at. You need other people to talk to that are having the same feelings that you are. They are suffering the same things that you are, or have, and they may have plenty of ideas on how to help you cope.

If you are in an Assisted Living community, seek out the friendship of the family members that have their loved ones there.

Many times this aggressive behavior will pass, or lessen as the disease progresses. Sometimes, it does not, and we need to give some medication to help lessen the anxiety level. Once the anxiety decreases, the behavior will lessen. Once that happens we are able to take them off the medication eventually.

This is just one of the phases that can happen with Alzheimers. You can learn more by contacting your local Alzheimer's Association.
Precious