Verbal Abuse Stemming from Dementia Tough On Caregivers

Photo credit Eberhard Grossgasteiger Dear Carol: My dad’s in the middle to late stages of Alzheimer’s disease. It’s been rough on both my mom and me in many ways, but right now I can say that the worst is my dad’s verbal abuse. He was always a gentle, wonderful man, so this uncharacteristic behavior is extra baffling and hurtful. He calls us ugly names and swears at us because he thinks that we’re stealing from him or even poisoning him. Mom is so ashamed that this is happening that she can’t tell anyone about it but I need an outlet, which is why I’m writing. How do we handle living with Dad’s verbal abuse without breaking down or acting ugly ourselves? — KC. Read the full article to learn more about the reason behind verbal abuse stemming from dementia and how you - the caregiver - can cope: Support a caregiver or jump-start discussion in support groups with real stories - for bulk orders of Minding Our Elders e-mail Carol                  Related StoriesTreatment For Older Adults Must Consider the Whole PersonThanks to Pharmacist Who Alerted This Family To Possible ComplicationsHow You Can Help Spousal Caregivers Through Hard Times 
Source: Minding Our Elders - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: blogs