I have been anchored down. Mom has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and she needs 24×7 care. What’s the big deal? It means what to some may be simple, i am unable to leave the house unless she is cared for by someone.

During the day, I must work, as do many, and thankfully my employer allows me to do it remotely, a gift brought to us by the recent pandemic. During the day, I pay for someone to look after mom, so I can concentrate on my job. Some people may think that is unnecessary because, after all, how much can it take to care for mom? It takes more than many people understand, and some days she needs more care than others.

After the caretaker leaves, I look after mom, cook for her, provide help with her medications, and take care of all the housework. I would do that anyway if I was living alone, I suppose. No big deal. It’s the inability to leave after living a life where I would leave as I pleased and never tie myself down to anything or anyone.

It has been a journey learning about Alzheimer’s disease and how it affects those we love. Until you live it, or care for someone who suffers from this insidious disease, you really don’t know the toll it takes.

I will try and share what I can, what I have learned, and what I still cannot accept.