Mom with Dementia Begs to Go Home: How to Help
Dear Carol: I take care of my 93-year-old mother in my home. Mom’s been physically frail for years, yet until recently, she’s remained cognitively strong. Now, she’s exhibiting obvious dementia symptoms. What matters most is keeping her comfortable and as happy as she can be considering the circumstances. Sometimes she’s quite chatty and lucid, but she goes into phases saying she wants to go home. Since she’s lived with us for almost a decade, I don’t know if she means the house where she lived with my dad, her childhood home, or even that she’s ready to go to heaven. I feel so bad for her when she does this, but I don’t know how to help. Thanks so much for all you do. – WP
Dear WP: Hearing the refrain “I want to go home” is hard for all caregivers, but particularly sad for those who brought the person into their own home. My heart is with you. Current thinking is that home to most people…
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