Hi there Ejean, as meebo says - it's great to hear from you.
Annie, glad to hear that OH is much better, and reducing the meds ... hope he was OK at work today.
Meebs, sure hope that all your tests bring you good news. It's reassuring that you are getting good medical care.
Sarge, my heart goes out to you.
I hope that the assessment will bring you some comfort, one way or another.
Anyone that has been through caring for an elderly relation with Alzheimer's/Dementia completely understands what you are going through right now.
My dad, sisters and myself tried to care for my mum, but she turned to violence towards everyone, she was really scary.
She also started to crave being outdoors, no matter what time of day or night - as she lost all concept of time.
She had to be locked in the house (she did smash windows) as she went missing for hours.
We didn't have a choice really about looking after mum, as she attacked the doctor, nurse and health visitor that were looking after my dad at that time - (dad was so heartbroken about the state of his beloved wife, he refused to eat, totally gave up the will to live)
He eventually died, no apparent medical reason(we all say a broken heart) - before the inevitable happened.
Mum was sectioned and put into a horrible Victorian type place, I can still hear the cries when I phoned to ask about mum, it gave me nightmares.
It took us all a long time to get mum into a really nice nursing home where she settled in, some places were diabolical - so hard research work may be on the cards for you maid. I'm sad that all this burden rests on your shoulders, at least, as the eldest, I had my siblings to share the responsibilities of mums care.
Everyone knows that you adore your dad Becky, but you will have to look after yourself too.
You also need a life, and a break from caring.
Caring for a sick relative is hard work and especially so if you are caring for a close relative like a parent with dementia, especially if the behaviour eventually becomes aggressive.
Sorry I've gone on a bit, but just wanted you to know that we are all here, rooting for you xxx