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assisting a grandparent
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This may be slightly off topic but I could really use some help figuring this out. I've known my grandma had dementia for a bit now, but I've only just realised how bad dementia is for people due to a bit of research. My mum has always been stressed about it and now I realise why - it is so distressing for the person with dementia and those around them. I haven't been visiting her as much as I'm busy, and I feel horrible. I never realised how hard it is and I feel so upset for her - I'd do anything to help her feel better.
What do I do?
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Hi, welcome
What amazing empathy you have, never lose that wonderful gift.
As we walk through life, as much as we'd like to help out, we are better off accepting that we cannot "save the world". Our abilities as individuals or even collectives of a family unit is limited.
Basically this means there are some things within our capabilities and other things we cannot prevent. When we reach our limits of ability we can only comfort, support and make life as fulfilling as possible. You are doing just that and as you are a grandchild to your grandmother your care is truly amazing. So can you help further?
Just like you, your parents are suffering. They will lose their mother/mother in law and them witnessing her gradually fade away is heartbreaking for them. Comforting others comes in many forms depending on family dynamics, levels of affection and so forth. As a man most of us only need a hand on a shoulder, that very basic action tells us you care and if we are very emotional we'll turn and hug etc. But with males best not to expect that as we hide our emotions. Females are very different and love unity with care offered.
So spread your love. You grandmother has a grandchild that loves her but is limited. Thats ok, we cant save that world of hers but you can admire her life in producing a loving family including you, plus we can live on with our lives in memory of her adopting her values and wonder. One day you might become a grandparent and if you do you'll know if you've created the family tradition of passing on empathy and what a gift it will be to gfeel that love from your grandchild.
"All living things pass away, but love continues... we pass it down and we take it with us" (TonyWK)
Reply anytime if you want to TonyWK
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Thank you, this means a lot
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