How Does Late Stage Parkinson’s Disease Effect the Caregiver?
A question asked by mandy45503: How does late stage Parkinson’s disease effect the caregiver?
I was wondering if anyone could give me some insight as to how late term parkinsons disease would affect the mental mindset of the caregiver. My grandparents have been married for over 40 years, and my grandfather has had Parkinson’s disease for about 13 of them. I know his medical situation is getting worse as he has been in the hospital three times that know of this year. I can’t drive, but several times over the past year, I have made arrangements to visit, only to be told at the last minute that a visit would be inopportune. My grandmother is his primary caregiver and is withdrawing into herself, and I can’t say I blame her, but I am concerned that my son will never get a chance to meet his great grandparents. My grandparents and I have always had a wonderful relationship, but a rather closed one. Is this type of behavior expected in the stressed caregiver? How can I get her to open up about such an off-limits topic? I truly care and would like to know what is going on.Thanks
Most detailed answer:
Answer by life’sgreat
This can happen to anyone who has been in your grandmother’s position, esp for that length of time. You say you’ve always had an excellent but closed relationship with your grandparents. In that case, I would talk to your grandmother over the phone and explain your feelings regarding your son. See if you can arrange for someone to sit with your grandfather for a few hours while you and your grandmother and your son have some time together and then try to see your grandfather briefly after that… Also, here’s a website you might find useful.
Since the topic is off-limits, as you say, I’m sure progress will be slow, but if you can be in touch with your grandmother frequently (phone, letter) it would be a start! Good luck
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Tagged with: caregiver • disease • effect • late • Parkinsons • stage
Filed under: Parkinsons
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I bet she loves you so much that she wants you to remember your grandfather the way he was, not the way he is now. Send her a note of appreciation for all she is doing for Grandpa, and that you will be there in a moments notice if you can be of any help. Call her once a week just to let her know you love her, and keep asking what you can do.