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11924850 tn?1601364171

How to talk with my sister

9.03.2021

Hello.

My dear sister has Alzheimer's (diagnosed as Early Onset 6 years ago).  I don't know how to talk with her  I don't call  We've always been so very close.  Since the COVID Pandemic I've only seen her 2 times - outside.  Her 50th Wedding Anniversary is soon.  I'm close with my brother-in-law as well.  They were dating in grade school so I've known him almost my whole life.  He takes care of her with all the love in his heart and soul.  

Does anyone have suggestions on how to speak with her or about good organizations or websites that I might contact to learn some skills?  I appreciate any help.  Thanks.
2 Responses
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20914962 tn?1638198825
iMAGINE A CONDITION WHERE AN INDIVIDUAL FORGETS EVERYTHING RELATED TO  DAY-TO-DAY COMMUNICATION, EVENTS, AND VOCABULARY SKILLS AND IS TOTALLY DEPENDANT ON OTHERS FOR MEDICATIONS AND CARE.
I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT YOU DON'T NEED ANY SPECIAL SKILLS TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR LOVED ONES AND SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME WITH THEM.
THEY NEED THE UTMOST CARE AND LOVE FROM THEIR CLOSE RELATIVES.
I HAVE SEEN AND WITNESSED THE FRUSTRATION AND ANXIETY ASSOCIATED WITH ALZHEIMERS.
I WOULD ONLY SUGGEST YOU TAKE PROMPT ACTION IN THIS REGARD AND DO CONTACT WITH YOUR SISTER ON A PROMPT BASIS
Helpful - 0
973741 tn?1342342773
Hi there.  Trying to understand.  Does she recognize you?  You will always have an air of familiarity with her.  Does she live at home with her husband still?
Helpful - 0
2 Comments
Hello and thanks.  I'm sorry that it took so long for me to reply.
She recognizes me.  She still lives with her husband.
Please let me know if there's any other questions.
So, what are you wanting to talk to her about? About her diagnosis? How she is doing with it?  Did you have some kind of rift that you are feeling uncomfortable about?  It sounds like you love her very much and want to be in her life. I'm hoping she's had her vaccine and if you've had yours, you could attempt an in person visit.  Sometimes just biting the bullet and launching/trying gets us over our awkwardness or fear.  I would treat her like you normally do and if she is confused, just patiently keep her on track or remind her. Keep things upbeat. This article is some suggestions as she advances with the disease about how to talk to her.  https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving-changes-communication-skills  Copy and paste it. It looks really helpful.  Let me know what you think
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