Dear AD Spouses;
In 1996 my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, (although his neurologist said he had developed it at least 2 years prior). And recently, I had to place him into an 'AD' Unit at a nursing home. I was aware that this day would come, but, yet, I was not fully prepared for it. My emotions ran from guilt (thinking I was being selfish) to relief (knowing that he is being well cared for).
My children have been very supportive, in fact, one of my daughters realized that I was under more stress than I could handle...before I was REALLY ready to admit it.
You see, my husband and I have been married for 43 years; so the adjustments to living without him has been quite a shock - no one to eat breakfast or lunch with, no one to laugh with at a TV show or to take a walk with this spring.
This coming Christmas season will probably be the most trying as he has been Santa Claus to the children of Columbus for the last 43 years, the last two of which I have played 'Mrs Claus' because of his slow digression. (Our youngest son is now planning to put on the red suit and white beard to carry on the family tradition.)
Our church family and several organizations we belong to, have also been very helpful. When you find yourself without your loved one, there is always someone you can turn to for support if you just ask for help.
The most comfort I receive comes from prayer. There are several Scriptures I have claimed; Philippians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." And Romans 8:28 and :31b "And we know that in all things God works for the good to those who love him" and, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"
May God Bless you, your family and especially your loved one who suffers from this disease.