A husband recounts his experience caring for his wife who has been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. He details the challenges they face, including memory loss and confusion, but also highlights the joy their new dog brings to Cathie's life.
I know there will come a time when my wife no longer recognises me. But for now, we both feel blessedI detest what early-onset Alzheimer’s is doing to the person I love. Yet I’m in awe of how she quietly, stoically, responds to its ravagesy wife – and best friend– of the past 38 years can no longer say the word “hippopotamus” or count backwards from 100, or draw a watch face on a piece of paper.
Of course, Biscuit sleeps between us. In the morning, it’s often a few minutes before Cathie acknowledges me, such is her focus on the dog. I savour every moment. Alzheimer’s is not the loss of memory. A relative, on hearing Cathie’s diagnosis, suggested she might have it as well because she sometimes forgets things. I sucked in a deep breath before explaining that Alzheimer’s attacks more than memory. Yes, Cathie forget things. But it’s the unexpected stuff that hurts. Cathie’s language skills have changed dramatically.
I hate visiting the neurology department of our hospital. They are sensitive and kind and professional, and I watch them measuring Cathie’s changes. We use the word “changes”. It sounds better than “losses”. Last visit they offered Cathie a higher dose of an antidepressant, because despiteof “major Alzheimer’s breakthrough”, there’s little the doctors can do than this, and to monitor the losses. Sorry, the changes.
Alzheimer's Disease Early-Onset Caregiving Dog Therapy Memory Loss
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Family of iconic TV journalist shares somber health updateThe son of Australian journalist George Negus has revealed his father is now mostly “non-verbal” in a heartbreaking update on his Alzheimer’s battle.
Read more »
I know there will come a time when my wife no longer recognises me. But for now, we both feel blessedI detest what early-onset Alzheimer’s is doing to the person I love. Yet I’m in awe of how she quietly, stoically, responds to its ravages
Read more »
VMA iconic moments that shaped the early 2000s and why they impact us todayFrom a surprise pregnancy reveal to Madonna and Britney's infamous kiss to Lady Gaga singing while covered in fake blood, the MTV Video Music Awards have hosted memorable performances.
Read more »
Cameron Munster and wife Bianca announce safe arrival of new baby seven weeks early7NEWS brings you the latest local news from Australia and around the world. Stay up to date with all of the breaking sport, politics, entertainment, finance, weather and business headlines. Today's news, live updates & all the latest breaking stories from 7NEWS.
Read more »
Warriors poach versatile Titans forward after early release — Transfer CentreNRL: The Manly Sea Eagles will miss out on a home final after losing to the Cronulla Sharks.
Read more »
Storm star linked to Broncos switch pending early release — Transfer WhispersNRL: Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett and Jesse Bromwich front the media after their Round 27 loss to Newcastle Knights.
Read more »