Losing Myself
I was diagnosed with stage 4 of Alzheimer's back in February of this year. My life has changed drastically. I've had to quit working and start the process of filing for disability/social security. This process isn't fun. I have made my final arrangements and I have made other preparations for things. However, I'm having such a hard time dealing with this. I'm at a point where I cry at the drop of a hat. Sundowners has started so I keep to myself as much as possible. There is so much "stuff" going through my mind all at once that its hard to keep track of. I have been writing everything down, what I'm doing, what needs to be done. I've filled 2 notebooks since February. I still forget to do stuff even though I wrote it down. I don't have someone who understands to talk to about this so, I'm having a really hard time dealing with this. For the first time, I feel lost..
Hi
, sending (((hugs))), love and light. No one should have to do this alone. Have you reached out to alz.org? They have ome resources https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz, and also a helpline that can connect you with local support and provide support through crisis: https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline_(1) = there is a button on the lower right side of the page that will let you chat online with omeone if you prefer.
Please know that we are always here to help. We have some members that have Alzheimer' and do advocacy work, likeand , who may be ableto help. This also may be a helpful article: https://alzheimersdisease.net/forums/support-groups-patients
Let us know if we can help you connect with any information or resources. - Warmly, Donna (Team Member)It is a difficult thing to go through, and it is understandable why you feel lost. My husband also has Alz, and the struggle to keep track of things, even when they're written down, is a real part of the disease. So, please, don't blame yourself for forgetting.
You are doing so much hard work just by preparing and writing things down, and it is ok to let yourself feel everything. Finding a support group specifically for people with an early diagnosis can help you talk to others who truly get what you are facing right now.Thank you for your kind words and support. I truly appreciate it. It's very difficult to find a support group where i live. I'm in the mountains of West Virginia and I have to travel hours just to get to my Dr's appointments let alone any kind of support group. I'm mostly home bound which is very isolating. I do have family here with me, my son lives with me n will be my caretaker when the time comes for that. I don't really get out much anymore. But that's ok, I really didn't go anywhere anyway. I just feel so alone in this.. sorry for rambling, thanks for listening. Have a blessed day.
you are welcome to share or vent with us at any time! That is what our community is for, we are here to offer you support and understanding. On the alz.org site, they also offer virtual support groups, you can call 800.272.3900 to find out more about what they have to offer. I am so glad to hear you have your son with you as well. Please keep us posted with how you are doing. Sending you hugs. Jill (Team Member) , I feel you. I'm very introverted, and it is my preference not to go out places - I am much more comfortable in my own home. You can call the WVA chapter of The Alzheimer's Association here: 1601 2nd Ave, Charleston, WV 25387n - Phone: (304) 343-2717 - If you prefer to stay home, they can help you connect with a virtual/Zoom support group.
You're not alone. This whole community is here to share support. And you never have to apologize here. This is a place of acceptance, support, and understanding. We're always here to listen. Have a blessed day <3 - Warmly, Donna (Team Member)
Thank you, Donna for your kind words. I will definitely utilize the number for the WV Alzheimers association. I soo need the guidance and direction..
