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Exploring a “Memory Loss” Support Group

Today, for the first time, I went to a local memory loss caregivers support group.  I didn’t know what to expect, but I think it may be a helpful thing for me to try to go fairly regularly.  The challenge will be figuring out how to juggle the time against work commitments. Not shockingly, but still embarrassingly, I totally broke down during my introduction.  But they were supportive and non-judgmental about it.  I was the youngest person there by probably 20yrs. I never fashioned myself the support group type- but apparently I just needed something this difficult to legitimately need one for. Couple takeaways from today: Check that I have medical and financial power of attorney.  Understand it a bit more. Find out whether there’s a long-term care policy- or what it would cost to get one now. Get the actual driver’s license taken away and replaced by just an ID.
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MRI Day

Today, my dad took my mom in for an 8:45am MRI- a required step before getting a neurology appointment.  Apparently my mom didn’t know where they were going or why- even though she’s known about this appointment for a week and a half.  It was a traumatic experience from the sounds of it. To my surprise, the results are already back, but I don’t fully understand what was relayed to me second hand.  Something about her left carotid artery contributing to dementia.  Of course, I’ve tried to Google and hypothesize what this might mean- but I really just need to be patient and wait for the official diagnosis from the neurologist; unfortunately, patience is not once of my strengths.
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An Introduction

At the time of this writing, I am 43yrs old and work in the tech industry in Southern California;  my mother is 74 and has dementia.  She has manifested symptoms for years, but they have become much more serious; we are now seeking a formal diagnosis; we are now seeking a path forward.  This blog is an attempt to process the evolution of my mother’s condition, as well as my role as a secondary caregiver currently living remotely.  I actually don’t expect anyone to find or read this. As of this week, it’s been communicated and agreed that my mother will no longer: drive pay bills or handle credit cards  I was just there 2 months ago.  Very nervously, and following an argument, I allowed her to drive me to the airport (10min from her house).  Had I realized it would be the last time she would ever be in the drivers seat with me, I would’ve savored it more - but her decline since that time has been rapid and intense, surprising everyone. In my heart, I wa...
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