I feel like I lost my best friend. What can I do?

Question

Carolyn McGraw · Answer

Losing a loved one to dementia can be an incredibly difficult experience. It may feel like you've lost your best friend, but it's important to remember that they have a disease. Their humanity and love for you is still there. When you're dealing with a loved one who has dementia, it's crucial to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. It's normal to be afraid and feel like your life is falling apart, but operating from a place of fear may not lead to the best decisions. Instead, take a step back, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you are there to support and help your loved one through this journey. Focus on being there for them, and you will find your way through this challenging time together.

Kalisha Bonds Johnson · Answer

Losing a loved one to dementia can feel like losing a best friend. It's a difficult reality to face, but it's important to make the most of the moments you have together. In the early stages of the disease, there may still be glimpses of their personality. Cherish these moments and find joy in them. Are there things you all wanted to do together? Make a point to do them now. Is there a story you want to hear over and over again? Record them telling it. Memories are precious, and those with dementia tend to hold onto past memories more easily than present ones. Write things down, journal, or take pictures to preserve these memories and create keepsakes. While the relationship will never be the same, you can still find ways to make it meaningful and full of quality.

Sandeep Jauhar · Answer

If you're dealing with a loved one who has developed dementia, it can feel like you've lost them. It's as if their true self has been obscured in some way, and it can be difficult to handle. However, it's important to remember that not everything is lost. Although thoughts and memories may be affected by dementia, there are other aspects of a person's personality that remain intact. Habits and general propensities, for example, are often unconscious processes that are not heavily impacted by dementia. Additionally, the social connection you have with your loved one still exists, even if they seem different. Personalities are not solely defined by thoughts and memories.

In my own experience with my father, I witnessed glimpses of his true self during moments like having lunch together. He would say things that reminded me he was still there, the person he had always been. Even in the later stages of his disease, when I played his favorite Sufi Muslim poetry or music by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, he would snap his fingers and smile, still able to enjoy the music he loved.

So, while it's true that dementia changes a person, it's important to recognize that they are not completely lost. Their core essence remains, and by embracing the aspects of them that continue to shine through, we can still maintain a meaningful connection with them.

Sharon Hall · Answer

Losing a loved one to dementia can be incredibly difficult and it's normal to feel like you've lost your best friend. The grieving process for dementia is unique because it's a constant journey of grieving every day, as you witness gradual changes in their persona and see them lose a little bit of themselves. It's important to find ways to cope with this grief. Some people may turn to antidepressants to help manage the depression that often accompanies this disease. Others may seek support from a therapist who can provide a listening ear and understanding. Remember, it's okay to cry, yell, or express your anger towards the disease. Find healthy outlets for your emotions, such as talking to family or joining an online grieving group. Take care of yourself as you navigate this journey and allow yourself to feel the loss that comes with dementia. Remember, the person you loved is still there, but the disease has changed them. Grieve in the way that suits you best, and know that you're not alone in this experience.

Robert Reid · Answer

Dementia can impact close relationships, like friendships in marriages. Even when activities change due to the condition, adapting and finding new ways to connect can help. Despite the challenges, maintaining love, laughter, and support for each other are crucial. It's important to cherish the enduring bond and focus on the positive aspects of the relationship. Communication, understanding, and shared moments can strengthen the connection. Seeking support from healthcare providers, support groups, and resources can also provide guidance and assistance. Remember, love, companionship, and shared memories can still be treasured, fostering a sense of connection and comfort in the journey together.

Alyssa Aguirre · Answer

Losing a loved one to dementia can feel like losing your best friend. It's a difficult and challenging journey to go through. Counseling can be a helpful option for many people in this situation. By talking to a counselor, you can find support and understanding from someone who truly gets what you're going through. Peer support groups for caregivers are also recommended, as they allow you to connect with others who are on a similar path. These groups provide a space where you can share your experiences and find comfort in knowing that you're not alone. Additionally, one-on-one counseling with a mental health therapist can help you process the complex emotions that come with losing a close friend to dementia. Taking the time to seek support and talk about your feelings can make a difference in your journey.

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