@paulapalmtreesfla123 wrote:

I alone, care for my husband who suffers from so many things. He is in a wheel chaie most of the time. He has Parkinson's, ITP (a blood disorder which entails an injection of N Plate once per month to keep his platelets up ) , a thyroid condition, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. He cannot contrl his urine and on occasion, bowel movements. He also suffers from a mild dementia so he cannot control medications or our finances. Believe it or not, I keep my spirits high. Although, at times, I feel depressed and pray everyday that my health holds up. We both try to keep a possitive attitude. He knows how difficult it is for me and thanks me all the time. We've been married 61 years and love each other very much. Despite all this, we take trips now and then. As difficult as that may be, we enjoy them and look forward to more trips. Of course I drive . I must keep driving because of many trips to doctors. The only problem I am facing noe, is that there are 6 steps to get to our car. He barely makes them up and down. I woeey that one day he will not be able to make them. We just take one day at a time.
paulapalmtreesfla123,
Thank you for sharing your story with us. First, I would like to congratulate you and your husband on 61 years of marriage - what an amazing commitment and testament to love!
I happy to read that you both are trying to stay positive in this demanding and sometimes difficult journey. It is so important to keep your spirits up and have respite, which it seems you both do in the form of traveling. Where do you both go together?
I would like to point you to some of our resources that may be able to help. First, you indicated that he is having trouble maneuvering stairs. Are you able to install a ramp for easier access to the car?
We have some resources below that may help you make this decision:
Remodeling a Home to be a Lifelong Home
Homefit Guide - Smart solutions for making your home comfortable, safe and a great fit.
We also have some wonderful videos on mobility that you might find useful. (Please scroll toward the bottom of the page.)
Finally, you indicated that your husband is suffering from mild dementia. Please take a moment to read our Care Guide on Dementia.
I do hope you find this information useful.
Please write back and let us know how you are doing.
AARPJen
Caregiving Concierge