Losing a parent who had dementia is like navigating a rollercoaster in a storm. It’s a whirlwind of emotions—relief mixed with sadness, guilt mingled with memories. When my mom passed, it hit hard. Dementia had slowly stolen her from us, and her passing felt like a strange kind of closure.
Grief after dementia isn’t straightforward. It’s messy. You might find yourself crying one moment and feeling strangely relieved the next. That’s okay. There’s no rulebook for this stuff.
Talking helps. Seriously, find someone who gets it—friends, family, a support group. Sharing stories and feelings with people who understand can be a huge weight off your shoulders.
Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s survival. Whether it’s hitting the gym, binging Netflix, or just napping, do what feels good for you. You’re going through a lot, so be gentle with yourself.
Remembering my mom isn’t about the disease; it’s about the person she was before. I try to celebrate her life—favorite recipes, old photos, goofy stories. It keeps her spirit alive in a positive way.
And hey, grief doesn’t have an expiration date. It’s okay if it hits you out of the blue, even months later. Healing takes time, and it’s different for everyone.
So, if you’re going through this too, know you’re not alone. Take it one day at a time, lean on those who care, and hold onto the good memories. That’s how we navigate this bumpy road.