My Alzheimer's Journey

I have been a caregiver all my life. I spent 4 years working exclusively with Alzheimer's and Dementia residents. I am now 55, and was diagnosed with Alzheimer's myself.

A surprise diagnosis

I thought my doctor was nuts. It started with him telling me something before I ended my visit with him. The next time I saw him, he asked me if I remembered the last thing he told me. Of course I couldn't, but I thought that was because it was a couple of weeks ago. He assessed me. Told me that I had problems remembering things and suspected Alzheimer's.

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My grandma had Alzheimer's. She surely hid that from me, and me being a professional, I was mad at myself for not catching on. Then to be told that I had Alzheimer's, I couldn't and still can't believe it. But, oh wait! I just remembered the time I got lost on a simple trip I had taken a million times. Couldn't remember "who" or where I was. I remember thinking who were my "People" and where do I belong? It was frightening.

Worried about the future

Most days now, I  struggle with tasks, especially at work, and I am afraid to drive alone. I am scared about getting older and the Alzheimer's progressing. My kids try to help but it devastates my son when I don't recognize him. This has only happened once so far and he looked so sad. I asked his name and who he was to me.

This is my story.

Help others feel a little less alone.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The AlzheimersDisease.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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