I have early onset Alzheimer’s and as the disease progress, I find it difficult to be away from my husband for even a couple of hours. When we are in store or church if he is not right my my side I begin to panic. The best thing for me is to have someone stay with me when he is gone for any length of time and to mark on a calendar or paper on the island when he will back. It also helps if I am kept involved in some activity or even a movie or TV show while he is gone so that I am not o fixated on his absence. Most of all, you, as his caregiver, need to take care of yourself. Find ways to give yourself quality "break" time. That doesn't mean just going out for groceries or things that are needed for daily living. I mean time to spend with friends or walks in the park or whatever you like to do. This not something you should feel guilty about - that time with rejuvenate you and make live better for both of you. Good luck as you take this journey.

Ruby, I believe it is part of the disease. My husband is the same way much of each day.

I think he is just afraid to be alone because he is so confused and can't figure out so many things. He wants me near.

Bless you Ruth for your clear and personal answer to the :doesn't want to be alone" question and some very good ideas for caregivers to help with anxiety re this.

I feel for each and everyone of you. This disease is horrible. Thanks for sharing.

I don’t think this anxiety is gender specific so much as progression of the disease. My Mom wants no one but me. My sister tries now and then to contact her, but rarely sees her in person.

Mom gravitates to me first. When we are together I find I have to slow down to first gear when I’m walking and make eye contact often.

Mom is still verbal and says please don’t forget I love you more than you know. I know she’s talking about all of her kids, but if they don’t come around to be with her, I have no need to keep them in the loop. They are missing out big time.

My point is yes she is needy, but this is the last of the good stuff. I dread the time when she can’t speak anymore. It’s coming and almost here. I pray the silence doesn’t last long.

Blessings to us all who are in the same boat. You are not alone.