DEAR ABBY: One of my aunts is having trouble with her memory. She recently stopped recognizing her daughter and no longer calls any of us by name. Some of this aunt’s children are in denial. They refuse to believe there’s anything wrong. They have stated this so strongly that the other siblings are afraid to raise the issue of an assessment. Seeing my aunt deprived of a medical diagnosis and associated care that might alleviate her suffering is very hard. – CONCERNED FOR AUNTIE
DEAR CONCERNED: Your aunt’s inability to recognize her own daughter is not a sign of normal aging. If your aunt’s children find it too difficult to have the conversation, another close relative, a friend perhaps, or her doctor can take the lead.
To encourage families to have these conversations, the Alzheimer’s Association has partnered with the Ad Council in creating “Our Stories” (alz.org/ourstories).
It features real stories of people who noticed changes in their loved ones and took the difficult step of having a conversation. It also offers customizable conversation starters, a list of early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s, benefits of early diagnosis and a downloadable discussion help guide. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Association’s free 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) is available for families addressing these important conversations and other caregiving concerns.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
What teens need to know about sex, drugs, AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “What Every Teen Should Know.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)
Jeanne Phillips