I found this series to be quite informative,sad, touching,enlightning and also lacking.
I admire the courage of all those involved to share their lives and stories. The one thing I was hoping they would touch upon was Alzheimer's with Down Syndrome. It is hard to find good information on this subject. I am the sole caregiver of my 62 year old Down Syndrome Uncle. 2 years ago he wad diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I was a caregiver for a woman with Alzheimer's for 2 years so I had some hands on experience before I took this on but, my Uncles case is so much different. He has OCD and his speech has always had challenges. You had to learn to speak Barry language. Now nothing he says makes sense except for cursing. He never used to curse but now his mouth is like a trucker, and loud. It gets embarrassing when we have to go out. If anyone can help our give me some advice it would be greatly appreciated.
DawnH

Hello DawnH, my name is Tom and I want to WELCOME you to this board that is designed for people like you and I! I’m sorry to hear about your problems. Im sure you realize that your Uncle is not resopnible for his actions anymore. Sure doesn't make life any easier though does it!

In June of 2008 I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s related dementia. I began visiting this message board in August 2008 and the people have become important to me. I’m sure that you will find a number of supporters here for you.

I will attach a link to a site that will lead you to your local Alzheimer’s Association
Chapter. Those people will be able to assist you with local resources and thoughts to improve your life:

http://www.alz.org/apps/findus.asp

Please call the 24/7 Helpline at
1-800-272-3900 if you have any pressing issues!


For Elder Care:
http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare/Public/Home.asp

http://www.eldercarelink.com/p...KMvJgCFQHHGgodEUfpag

After this post on HBO you might find our "Caregivers" forum helpgul.

Please come on back to visit us soon!

Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.

Hi Dawn, thanks for joining in. I agree with your show assessment. But I think what it comes down to is, it's in all our best interest that the producers feel like they did something worthwhile. Maybe then they'll listen to some of the many great ideas that are brought up on this site.

A life with Down's, then Alzheimer's, too? Oh, wow . . . I don't think I'll be able to complain about my own life for days!! There's probably not much information, because it's such a horrifically sad situation that people just can't bear to get to know it better.

On the site menu, where you see the different forums to choose from, look down the list a few lines, and there you'll find the Caregiver forum. It is full of wisdom and honesty, beyond your wildest dreams.