Dementia is a process. It seems to move around the body.
Not realizing this was happening. Our focus was on one day after another.
The diminishing ability and the frequent loss of bladder and bowel function has been more and more prevalent.
We did not know and were not told the body often starts "shutting down" and full loss of control can be a "sign" of other physical changes internally.
We've noticed some patterns
and try to watch for causes
and/or related developments
all without any support from the LTC.
LBD Dementia
raises the level of risk taking
we tolerate or allow in our loved ones
to try to give them as much
"personal freedom" as possible.
With a child,
there are so many "firsts"
and so many "what if's".
Like holding a child's hand
when crossing a street,
eventually turning loose,
believing they'll be cautious
or turning over the car keys
for the first time.
With the adult "child"
going through Dementia
we don't look forward, welcome,
or anticipate these changes.
We're on a backward,
not a forward journey.
We travel on a roller coaster.
Speeds and distance vary,
no stops along the way.
Only continuing daily
into a future of uncertainty.
Some days,
even some hours,
change and fluctuating abilities
cause sheer exhaustion
on the part of the care provider.
