I am new here . . .

[donnisjreese]

Hello, my name is Donnis. I'm new to this community, For the past decade I've noticed that the functions of my memory were slowly deteriorating. Because I had previously watched these symptoms in my grandfather, and then my mother, both of whom had Alzheimers in later life, I am highly motivated to do whatever I can to fight this disease. My family is so supportive and for that I am very grateful. I am taking advantage of the many ways technology can remind me and help me plan. Th But life is a struggle from the constant forgetting, the double-checking of what I do, and my caution in the decisions I make. So I'm glad to be part of a community who is living a similar life journey. I'm focused on lifestyle changes that may help,

[Lori56]

It really helps if you could get extra rest Even if your having a good day Take a few minutes or more to sit quietly a few times a day can help relax you and refocus All the stuggling can make you really tired and stressed Taking that time out and slowing down can help with your mood It great you have support It hard to adapt to not functioning as you once did but I found some good in it by realizing what's really important and saving my energy and brain power for that

[donnisjreese in reply to Lori56]

Yes, I have read that I my increased fatigue can be a result of what's happening in my brain. I've also developed digestive problems which also cause fatigue. I am so glad I'm retired . . .I can take a nap whenever I want to do so .. .and I often do! Thanks for your response.

[Poppygail Ambassador in reply to Lori56]

Hi Donnis,

Sorry, I realize I am a bit late to the party as your post is ~ 1 month old but your story just struck a chord with me. We seem to share a very similar history in that we both watched/lived through two close family members going through and passing from forms of dementia. I too have noticed a constant decline in my memory and cognitive abilities over the past several years. In a way, I consider myself "lucky" for having gone along for the ride with my parents journey. I believe that since I had a good understanding of their disease process (DLB) I have been much more sensitive to the changes in my own situation. I believe this knowledge has led to an earlier diagnosis and hopefully a somewhat prolonged quality of life as research indicates early diagnosis is of great value in quality and outcome of treatment.

Also, even though I have a good basis of understanding of this disease process, I have found the more I educate myself, the "easier" my life becomes. Although there is nothing easy about living with these changes increased knowledge means there are fewer surprises around every corner because I have a better handle on what to expect and have better coping/adaptive strategies. And perhaps most importantly, I, as you indicated you have, have an amazing supportive family. Knowing that they are in your corner, whether they can truly understand the changes we are going through, makes a world of difference. I as write this I am realizing I'm not providing a lot in terms of advice but I hope just knowing someone out here "gets" what you are going through helps. It certainly has me.

All the best, Randy

[donnisjreese]

Thanks for your thoughtful reply. I am still grieving the loss of my dreams for this part of my life. I know I need an antidepressant as I am going deeper into depression. And have made a MD appt to hopefully get help. For me, having lived with this progression in life with my grandfather and mother is both helpful but also depressing. Thanks for your encouraging words! I will get past this disphoria....Hopefully soon!