My family has just begun the official dealings with my father who was diagnosed with Dimentia about 4 months ago. We have seen signs and symptoms of this for several years. My grandmother (his mom) passed away from AD about 4 years ago and his brother has also been diagnosed with Dimentia. Doctors just say this is early stages of AD.
My mother, bless her heart, is coping best she can as the past 4 months have been a whirlwind. After being diagnosed, he in the past 2 weeks has been asked to go on LT disability from his job, and is also stepping down as an elder in his church that he has served for more than 6 years. This is of his own request given the pressure of situations that he can no longer seem to handle or cope with. Stressful situations seem to trigger more significant reactions from him. He has been put on Aricept which seem to help with the mood swings he was having and for the time being, it seems I almost have a part of that cheerful, loving, active, social man I know as my father back. He was so depressed and angry for the past couple of years dealing with the knowledge that he could no longer do what he had done for so many years. He was a pilot for over 40 years and since retired from that to work in the church. They have a strong support system in the church, but being the oldest child of 3, I'm feeling helpless living half way across the country.
I have a family with two small children (4 and 1) and I want them to know their grandfather. He adores them and asks about them often. What can I do being so far away to foster these relationships and help my mother out. My brother is out of state as well, but does his best to get back as often as he can. My dad really identifies with him being the "boy" in the family and I know he really enjoys time with my husband for the same reason. Flights are so outrageous these days, it is hard to manage. My sister lives in town, but I hate to place the brunt of the burden on her. This is very difficult for me as I want to help everyone. Any sugguestions in small things I can assist with? I see them approx. 3-4 times a year, but I need to do more and it just doesn't seem to be enough time. I'm scared of not being close, that my family and I will lose precious time with my dad.
Thanks.
