27forParkinson's: Day 23 (Saturday)

Continuing on with Support

(thanks to Dementia Australia)

If your friend or a family member has been diagnosed with dementia, you may feel shock, anger or denial.

For many people, it can also come as a relief as they 'suspected something was wrong.

It's important to remember that the person with dementia (or Parkinson's) is bound to have plenty of powerful feelings too.

They may experience:

loss

sadness

confusion

anxiety

embarrassment

fear

frustration

anger

paranoia

It's important to be there for the person with dementia and maintain a good relationship with them.

At times, your connection may be put to the test. It's important to stay connected, support each other and talk about how dementia/parkinson's is impacting the way you feel.

Putting yourself in their shoes and making peace with the new chapter of your relationship can help.

Our relationship was often put to the test and I know I don't stand alone here, speaking with others who have loved ones with dementia, they have said they feel the same. No matter how hard you try, how much you love someone, there are always going to be those 'down days', days when you're tired through lack of sleep, your own health.

Personally, I found great support through LCHS Carer Support Group. I only managed to make one of the LCHS Dementia Support Group meetings and thankfully I did as it was at this

meeting I met Mel F a local Dementia Aus support worker ... I didn't think then that I would need her support quite so soon. I can't thank Mel enough - and urge you, even if it's only a question which you may think is silly or irrelevant or someone removed from your situation - reach out to Dementia Australia, their website has a wealth of information and they will put you in touch with a local support worker.

My mood today matched the weather, cold and wet - a lovely message from my 'bestie' set me off crying .... but thanks for the lovely sentiments and no I'm not special I just loved him so much .... computer decided to disconnect itself from the internet whilst I was transferring photos from my phone ... sorted it out eventually.