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You show up at your parents' house looking forward to visiting and sharing a family dinner. Unfortunately, your mom doesn't seem to know who you are and accuses you of not visiting in a long time. She asks you the same question over and over and you get tired of answering her. Doesn't she listen to you? Your mom insists on clearing the table after dinner, but she drops and breaks a glass on the way into the kitchen. When you try and help her she yells at you that she can take care of herself, "I'm hopeless not helpless!" You are now counting down the minutes until you get to leave. At the same time, you feel guilty for not understanding your mother's age-related changes and are hurt that she no longer treats you like her favorite child. 

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Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are increasing exponentially in our country. If you are not yet affected by this illness, it is likely that you soon will be. You may be faced with difficult decisions about moving your loved ones into a residential care facility or providing care for them at home. You are now a part of the "sandwich generation." You are expected to care for both your adult children and your aging parents and it is taking a huge toll on you, your family and your marriage. It is imperative that you seek support to maintain your own sanity. More importantly, support is necessary to help you enjoy these last years you may have with your beloved parents.

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