Acceptance

[hb79728956]

How do you learn to accept instead of being surprised and shocked when a newly diagnosed spouse is asking the same things over and over. I am fearful and sometimes angry and upset with myself.  I think I am in denial.  I actually have experience dealing with people with alzheimers and dementia but never a spouse who is newly diagnosed with mild dementia. It is very scary.

[JaneCares]

Oh dear. This is so very hard, scary as you say, and also heartbreaking. Denial is protective. It eases as you accept. If Denial isn't keeping you from doing something important, there's no harm in it. Is there a caregiving support group near you, either sponsored by the Alzheimers Association or some other group? Listening to other 'well spouses' might help. Now that most everything is on zoom or some other platform, you can 'go' to a support group anywhere! There are also some excellent dramatic movies that are streaming these days. When I googled 'good movies for alzheimer's' there were a number of suggestions: https://alz.org.sg/5-unforgettable-films-about-dementia-you-need-to-watch/ is just one. 

Surprised, shocked, fearful, angry. I'd be patient with yourself. This is a HUGE change. There are books, groups, movies. And your own wisdom. I would find a good therapist and even once a month sessions will help you learn how to be compassionate with yourself AND with your spouse. I am sorry. And you will learn so much. Not that you ever wanted to learn these particular coping strategies...  

[hb79728956]

Thank you so much for your reply.  I have seen some AARP movies dealing with this. I am praying for acceptance.  Just doing this is my first step toward this.  I have a wonderful Therapist that is helping me and has known us for a long time.  I so appreciate your feedback.  This is a crazy world, without this.  I will ckeck into the link you gave me.  Thank you!