Need Driving Tests Specifically for People with Dementia

This morning I read an article/blog (http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/dementia-sufferers-need-new-driving-test-20100420-srtr.html) from Brisbane Australia about the need for driving tests specifically for people with dementia. I agree. My husband, Dave, is 60 years old and had his driver’s license taken away last December. Three years ago when Dave was diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), the specialist told me that it was up to me to decide when he wasn’t safe enough to drive... 

[Read The Full Article]

My husband speaks about his life with his dementia

Three years ago the doctors put a label on my husband’s (Dave) changing personality, behavior and emotions. It explains why he doesn’t recognize his fellow teachers of 25 years; why he has trouble reading and speaking; why he is quieter and is withdrawing into his own world. It explains the seizures, hand tremors, loss of sense of humor (almost), and changing senses–hearing, taste, smell, touch.  Dave at age 57 was officially diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia. His attitude... 

[Read The Full Article]

Daughters organizing walk for their Dad with Frontotemporal dementia

The incidence of Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)  is on the rise. It is often mistaken for a bipolar or depressive mental disorders because FTD begins affecting the front and side lobes of the brain–responsible for emotions, language and personality. Alzheimer’s usually begins in the back of the brain where memory centers are located. The average age of  a person with FTD is between 40-60 years which usually means they are working full-time, as well as their spouse. Often young children... 

[Read The Full Article]

Living with Dementia is Teaching me to Let Go of the Smaller Stuff

Hoarding and overeating are some of the features of Frontotemporal dementia. My husband, Dave, was diagnosed 3 years ago and so far they haven’t been too much of a problem. There is no denying that his sweet tooth has come alive with his dementia, but he shows remarkable discipline. After lunch and dinner he loves to eat 2 Dad’s chocolate chip cookies. Not 3 cookies–even if there are 3 left in the bag. I am sure I would not leave a lonely cookie in the bag when I can’t even leave frozen... 

[Read The Full Article]

Care ‘Giver’ Learning to ‘Receive’

There are times when being a care giver for someone with dementia–or any serious illness—is exhausting and unpredictable. When my husband, Dave, was initially diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia, I searched everywhere for the magical book–10 Easy Ways to Live with Dementia. It not only didn’t exist, but there was little information on ‘how to’ deal with the many challenges that come up. It has been 3 years since our lives have changed dramatically. It took 2 years for me to... 

[Read The Full Article]