Marking Mom ’s Mother’s Day Even When She Can’t Understand Or Remember

Photo credit Priscilla DuPreez Dear Carol: My mom is just 62 but she began showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s four years ago. She lives in a good nursing home and I visit nearly every day. What’s bothering me is Mother’s Day. I know that the nursing home will do a nice job of making the ladies’ tables look festive and celebrating in general. I’ll bring Mom flowers and a gift that I will help her unwrap, but it tears me apart that she doesn’t understand what it’s about and she won’t remember that I was there. I’m writing because a friend of mine is trying to convince me that since this will be my Mother’s Day, too, I should use it for myself. She suggested that I bring my flowers and gift early. I know that she means well, but for this year, at least, I will visit Mom on the actual day. I need to do it for myself.  Even so, I’d like to know your thoughts for the future. – MHT Read the full column on Inforum about how Mother's Day can create anxiety for a caregiver: MedicareFAQ – Medicare Resource Center Support a caregiver or jump-start discussion in support groups with real stories - for bulk orders of Minding Our Elders e-mail Carol                  Related StoriesMoving to Assisted Living? Helping an Elder Leave Behind Their PetHow to Overcome the Guilt After Placing Someone In a Care FacilityWhen Parents With Dementia Don't Realize They Need Help 
Source: Minding Our Elders - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: blogs