Angies: Good question. Actually, it depends on each individual, and how much sleep you are getting, you're eating habits, and the stress level. Keep in mind you cannot give up; you must continue until the end. My dad was diagnosis with Dementia in September 2012, and he passed away due to Dementia in September 2015. I was his caregiver. My dad was bedridden the last 2 1/2 of his life. There would be times I would get calls from the nursing home and telling me my dad would not eat or would not let them bath him. There were times my dad would spend time in the hospital, and I was there with him about ten hours every day. Also, I had to handle the legal issues, make sure my dad's bills were paid, and other important matters. I had support of my wife, who would stay with my dad overnight when he was in the hospital. I also had my brothers stay with my dad overnight when he was in the hospital. It is going to be hard on you as the disease gets worse, and your loved one starts to slowly go through the stages of the Dementia. What I did was learn everything about Alzheimer's (which is the most common type of Dementia). I prayed, got some counseling from my dad's doctors, and when I was at home, I did things to keep myself busy.

Two days before my dad passed away, he was in the hospital and my dad kept saying rest, rest, rest. So, I walked over to my dad's bed, and I told him yes dad you need rest. My dad said, no I don't need rest; you need rest son.

I hope this answers your question.

Angie, do you have hospice coming? Are you sole caregiver or do you have family help? Check into respite care. Sounds like you need a little selfcare and time to regroup. Do you have a good facility nearby that you are comfortable placing him in? I know I asked more questions than gave answers. So sorry. Tell us more so maybe we can help.

Im sorry for your loss.

Hello there , well yes it gets tough and yes you need help . Dont forget you need help for yourself to help others

Good last memory. He knew you were there