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My husband used to be able to fix or figure out most of our usual household problems/repairs, but now although he really isn't a person with severe dementia as yet, he just does not remember how to do this anymore. We can't afford to hire someone every time something comes up, so I am the one who tries to figure out/fix or call someone if I can't. Of course sometimes a friend's husband can help or someone who does repairs who is retired and doesn't charge as much as a company would
My idea I… read more

December 3, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members warmly rallied around the original poster's creative solution of keeping a repair notebook to document appliance fixes and maintenance... Read more

Members warmly rallied around the original poster's creative solution of keeping a repair notebook to document appliance fixes and maintenance tips, with many sharing they face similar challenges as their spouses can no longer handle household repairs due to dementia. Several members offered practical strategies including using YouTube videos and owner's manuals for guidance, relying on '3 Best Rated' websites to find affordable local professionals, asking churches or the Office on Aging for referrals and grants, and using products like Green Gobbler for drain issues while running hot water daily to prevent buildup. A recurring theme was the emotional weight of taking on these traditionally shared responsibilities alone, balanced by a sense of pride and humor in becoming self-taught fixers, and the importance of setting boundaries around repair timelines and budgets while seeking help from trusted friends, retired handymen, and understanding professionals.

A myALZteam Member

Therapygal there are a lot of Utube videos out there with good instructions

December 3, 2019
A myALZteam Member

I am proud to say that I replaced the handle and flapper in my mother’s toilet. But, some jobs require expertise... like anything electrical! Ask your pastor to poll his congregation for help. Contact your local Salvation Army. Ask family and friends for “Help Coupons” instead of Christmas gifts. Just don’t let strangers in your house.

December 6, 2019
A myALZteam Member

YouTube can help. Ace Hardware is much more helpful. Find handyman that works by the hour. Less expensive sometimes. Going through same thing.

Call office on aging you’ll be surprised w referrals and grants they have. I used to work there.

Best to you.
Mary
Ps I have leaky faucets and slow drains.

June 5, 2020
A myALZteam Member

If you can take the S trap off under the sink and clean it out, that may be all to have to do. There are two couplers that you unscrew to get it off. The other thing you can try is to put a snake down the drain to clean it out.

December 19, 2019
A myALZteam Member

Sounds like my husband as well says he can fix it but in the end he can’t remember. This is a man who ran his own construction company and fixed everything. It is a lonely road we walk, we can only do our best. Not sure but maybe your drain in the dishwasher needs to be cleaned out. One day at a time, easier said than done.

December 17, 2019

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Eldersburg, MD

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