Dealing with Dementia

During the Covid pandemic my Mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and the months that followed were very difficult especially being in lockdowns and having to handle her aggressive tendencies during the initial stages. Eventually in 2022 she was declared incapable and after yet another stay in hospital it was recommended that she was placed into a care home where she could be cared for 24/7. So in June 2022, my sister and I made the very difficult decision to place her in care and looked for a place where she would be well looked after.

It has now been over a year and half and she seems to have settled but occasionally will still asked why she is there or where she is?

She no longer recognises us and cannot remember her grandchildren at all. In fact she immediately forgets that we have even visited her if we leave the room.

Today I went to visit my Mum and the visit was difficult to say the least. She was uncooperative and disengaged. This is the reality of having a relative with Alzheimer’s, the person no longer recognises people, places or things and frequently live in their memories as their most recent memories disappear.

At one point she suddenly looked at the floor and said “what are you doing? It’s nice to see you again though.” Then she drifted back to staring into space.

I always thought that my Mum would always be there but this is the toughest thing I have ever had to deal with and I appreciate the staff and carers at the home who look after her and make sure she is safe.

The reason I am writing this post is to let my readers know why there have been no books since Elven Dwarf and why Guardians of the North has been delayed so long. Caring for my Mum has taken up the majority of my time since 2020 and I haven’t had time to write. I had currently reading Elven Dwarf again and reacquainting myself with the characters.