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How To Know “when It’s Time”?

A myALZteam Member asked a question 💭
Santa Barbara, CA

My life - and the life of our 16 year old daughter - is continually bouncing from one disaster after another as a result of my husband’s mid-stage Alzheimer’s. He cannot realize that his capabilities are not those of who he used to be or even those of a normal person. So he has extremely poor judgement which leads to bad things happening. In November, he was the cause of an incident that led to thousands of dollars in damage to our home (still in the process of being fixed). Last Thursday, he… read more

December 16, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly affirmed that it is time for the original poster to place her husband in memory care, with many emphasizing that safety... Read more

Members overwhelmingly affirmed that it is time for the original poster to place her husband in memory care, with many emphasizing that safety for both him and the family must come first, and that asking 'when is it time?' is often the answer itself. Several members shared practical advice, including consulting with neurologists about medications to modify behaviors, hiring in-home caregivers for supervision and respite, working with care managers to navigate placement and resources, and seeking counseling for both the caregiver and daughter to process the trauma and transition. A recurring theme was releasing the guilt, with members validating that placing a loved one in memory care is an act of love and self-preservation, not failure, and that caregivers must prioritize their own health and sanity to continue advocating for their loved one's wellbeing.

A myALZteam Member

Yes, it's time. Expect great resistance, because he seems to be rather high functioning. Enough so that he continues to get himself in big trouble. You seem to be realistic enough to forsee the house on fire, the wondering away and getting lost, and any car keys that go missing. You are in for a fight, but it might just be a fight for his life!

December 16, 2019
A myALZteam Member

Have you discussed medication with your neurologist. Some of his behaviors could be modified by the correct medications. I found a low dose of Lexapro which gradually had to be increased over time was very helpful.

December 28, 2022
A myALZteam Member

Sending love to you. Hire a Care Manager. I just did. They will give you a plan of action for safety, agencies, grants for caregivers respite. Resources and great contacts and treatment you could never imagine.

Plus better placement referrals if your husband needs to go into long term care.
Get counseling for yourself and daughter. Ask care manager for better referrals for this.

You’re doing a great job. Cheering for you.
Mary💐

June 5, 2020
A myALZteam Member

It’s so tough and I feel for you. I had the same issue with my mother and felt so guilty bringing her to a home. But it was getting so difficult and stressful at home, and I knew that it would end up making me very ill too from all the stress. After placing her in a home, despite the guilt, my home was no longer a place of significant stress for me and my kids (especially after a long day of work) and I could visit her several times a week knowing she was in a safe and caring place. Your husband might also enjoy the daily activities at a home as well as he sounds social. Wishing you the best.

December 17, 2019 (edited)
A myALZteam Member

Thank you for your response. You are correct in that he is able to be quite deceptive about his capabilities. He is very verbal, has no trouble with communication, super friendly and social. He can come off as just a bit confused or “ditzy.” But oh so charming. It’s when no one else is around that the disasters happen, the things get lost, etc. I can’t allow myself to get too comfortable because that’s when the unexpected happens. So instead I’m on pins and needles.

December 16, 2019

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