My Dad lives in Oklahoma and I am in South Florida. I talk to him every day. My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's last summer, although we suspected for quite some time. My Father is in his mid 80s and mother is 79. Interestingly enough my Dad still holds down a job and mother pretty much stays home by herself for now. My Dad is now experiencing some depression laying awake nights worrying about what he will do as Mother progresses into the next stages of this disease. What can he expect and what kind of help can he receive? I would like to take them both into my home, but Dad is not ready to give up his home andjob and would be away from family and friends there in Oklahoma. I am not sure of the solution for him and what he can do. He will be flying here with Mother on Monday for a couple of weeks vacation. I plan to show him this web site and offer what help I can to him to let him know what he can expect moving forward with this. If you can offer any advice I would apprectiate it.
Thank you.

Dear Barbara,

I'm glad to hear that you are so close to your parents. I am sure you are a comfort to your father in this situation.

Caring for a person with dementia can be demanding and challenging but there is help available. Your idea to share our website with your father is good. It includes a wide range of helpful information. In addition, we have over 80 chapters around the country that sponsor educational programs and caregiver's support groups. The chapters are also an excellent referral source for various types of services that can help your father in his role of caregiver. You can locate the chapter in your father's local area, as well as the one near you in Florida, by going to our "Find Us Anywhere" link on our home page. I would suggest that your father attend caregiver's support group meetings for advice and support. Also, please let him know that there are counselors and social workers available anytime on our 24-hour helpline. Have him call 800-272-3900. Please feel free to call us as well if you have any questions or a need to talk.

Good luck to you and to your father and mother.

Best wishes,

Charlie