Hello to All,
I am new to this site and this is the first time I am posting,(anywhere). My father was diagnosed about 8 years ago, although I think was having problems before that but kept it to himself. He is 68 years "young." He had to retire last year b/c he was not able to perform his job well anymore. I have been trying to do what I can to help him: I enrolled him in exercise classes 3x week and he goes bowling once a week. He still drives,(but for how much longer I don't know),I help support him financially and take care of his bills,meals and any other needs but I know he needs more activity and a social life. I do not have any help. My husband is great and supports me well but doesn't know what to say when it comes to my Dad. I want to connect my father w/ others in the same boat. I was hesitent to even post b/c after reading so many other stories of people w/ much worse situations, but I know that I need assistance and who better to ask then those who are on the same road I am on.

my dad is also very young, he is in much worse shape. when my dad was able, he really enjoyed adult day care. they sing, do crafts, and just socialize. it was hard to see my dad get on a bus and leave for the day but he really seemed to enjoy it while he could.
lmfolino

I am so sorry for your situation. It sounds very overwhelming. The solialization that heis getting just in the exercise class and bowling alone is wonderful.

I am not caring directly for a loved one with alzheimers but I work in a nursing home with many who are afflicted with the disease, I do recreational therapy.

Don't feel that you need to hold back on your feelings because you feel your father is not as bad as others. You need support no matter what stage of the disease your dealing with.

One thing you might consider is joining a support group for caregivers. It's a place where you can talk about your own feelings and frustrations as well as get support and ideas
from others in your situation. I would call the alzheimer's asociation 1-800-272-3900 and ask about support groups in your area. They can give you the phone numbers for a local Alzheimer's assoc. in your state. Also try calling local nursing homes for information. Several nursing homes run support groups themselves. When you call make sure you talk directly to the facilities social worker. Even if they don't have support groups in their facility they can guide you to other resources in your community.

Also look for support groups for people with Alzheimer's themselves. Senior centers may be a good place to ask for info. They are also a great environment for socialization. It could be really helpful for your dad. If you call nursing homes the social worker might be of help also.

I hope I was of some help. My heart goes out to you. I couldn't imagine going through what you are. Just don't underestimate the encouragement and validation you can receive by joining a support group yourself. The more strength and love you get from others around you the more patience, love, and understanding you will be able to give your dad.

My thoughts are with you!!