Giving up their independence and seeing their ability to do tasks by themselves slowly erode, becomes one of the most frustrating aspects of the disease for many Alzheimer’s patients.  They know something is amiss, but often don’t understand why they’re not allowed to do the ordinary, everyday activities on their own.  Or why they can’t do them.

• Driving – this becomes difficult to explain and for them to comprehend
• Staying home alone
• Going outside on their own
• Cooking
• Living in their own home
• Taking care of their finances

These are just a few areas that cause frustration as the Alzheimer’s patient loses their independence.  The loss of these capabilities can cause discouragement in the rest of the family as the dependence on them becomes more and more evident.  This causes changes in their lives as well.

How have you faced the loss of independence in your loved one?  How have both of you coped?  There’s no pat answer as every situation is different.  But learning how others have managed often can help.

I’ll share in future blogs how Mother, Auntie and my family got through these situations.

(Amazon image)

(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen

Post from: Blisstree

Giving Up Their Independence – Discouraging for Alzheimer’s Patients