lapse of contretion

[Stickle1952]

today ive had a lapse of concentration for the first time since being diagnosed with corticobasal degeneration recently and it feels like so horrible. I expect this is going to be the new normal for me now didn't think it would be as quick as this yet though and it has given me a horrible feeling.

[Hidden]

I am trying to think of what l might say to give you comfort... not sure what to write. I am hoping you were in a safe place when this happened and the lenght of time was short.

New experiences can be upsetting & frightening to say the least. If possible keep a dated 'Me' Journal... for yourself but also the information can be shared with your doctor when needed. Sending Hugs... Granni B

[Stickle1952 in reply to Hidden]

good advice thanks

[kenh1]

So sorry to read this. Have you been advised not to drive. My wife in the early days of CBD and prior to diagnosis got lost driving in the centre of town and ran into a motorcyclist who ended up in hospital. The police gave a choice of handing in her driving licence or facing prosecution. She handed in her licence. Following on from that she remained aware of all that was going on and was admirably stoical throughout.

[Stickle1952 in reply to kenh1]

no i haven't been advised not to drive but i actually haven't been driving since March and i don't think i should drive thanks for the kind words and advice

[AJK2001]

I'm really sorry to hear that & hope you weren't doing something or in a position that was dangerous. How did it manifest itself? Agree with Granni B that a journal is a good idea, it might enable you to see a pattern as to when these episodes occur & find a coping strategy.

xxx

[Stickle1952 in reply to AJK2001]

thanks for your kind words

[daddyt]

These lapses of concentration can be sporadic very disconcerting, sometimes I refer to them as braincations. Driving should be out of the question. Giving up one's driver's license is a difficult choice, but the safest. Granni B's suggestion regarding a journal is a wise one. Document everything and anything, it's a great tool for you and to share with your doctor/others if you so choose.

Tim x

[Stickle1952 in reply to daddyt]

thanks for this advice much appreciated

[Marilyn_cbd12]

Hello. How frightening for you! I would offer same counsel as GranniB and Ken. My husband also had a driving accident though with a golf cart and we realized it was time to stop driving. Journal might help you sort things out and remind you of all the strengths you do have as well as your concerns. Keep living fully; your spirit is intact though you may see your body weaken

Marilyn

[Stickle1952 in reply to Marilyn_cbd12]

thanks for the kind words

[Stickle1952 in reply to Marilyn_cbd12]

thanks for your kindness

[Beads0122]

Sylvia,

It is so good to see that you found this site, but I’m sorry you had to. Most of us are or were caregivers to loved one who post, so it is good for us to hear of your perspective, fears, and struggles. Thank you for sharing. My wife quickly lost the ability to communicate especially with a computer interface, so I would be her interface. So keep fighting. Even when you struggle with concentration. Keep exercising: physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Wishing you strength and courage from afar,

Bobby

[Stickle1952 in reply to Beads0122]

thanks for the kind words and advice

[BattlingCHC]

So sorry ...

I wonder whether it'd help to build up a list of things which make you feel better instantaneously and don't require you to plan and think? Then look for opportunities of enjoying these things more often.

My own list of "good things" includes:-

- plants. I watch their progress most days and it's a real delight when a bud suddenly flowers overnight and surprises me the next day

- people-watching (faces are so wonderful, especially when they show the character of their owners!).

- pets (stroking and talking to them and enjoying their responses to the affection)

- colour and texture (seeing how different shades and materials work together - or don't!)

- music (it might be worth asking a family member with the technical knowledge and equipment to put together some favourite tunes on a few CD /DVD discs).

It's horribly hard to cope with any losses of self for whatever reason but sadly it's something most of us will have to go through, with as much serenity and strength of mind as we can manage .

[Stickle1952 in reply to BattlingCHC]

thanks for this tip i appreciate it

[Hidden in reply to BattlingCHC]

Such good ideas for all of us! Sending hugs... Granni B

[Drjazz]

I also have CBD. For me, so far, lapses in concentration are episodic, they come and go. CBD changes from day to day. Some new indignity happens and I'm afraid that will be in my life from now on, but usually it goes away. I'm afraid that every way my brain and body has gone haywire will return all at once, and I'll become a zombie. But it hasn't happened yet. All that you can do is amble on and hope for the best.

[Stickle1952 in reply to Drjazz]

thanks for the kind words