I was wondering if I might get a little help from the forum readers here with my Mom, Wanda. She's 89, living with me and my husband, and only has a mild case of dementia. Her main problem is RA and her inability to use her hands for things like opening jars and food packages. My Dad (her husband) passed away from Alzheimer's in 2007. Her younger sister passed 2 years later from Alzheimer's. Two weeks ago her younger brother passed away from Alzheimer's. I am her only living close relative left on the planet. She is so down and depressed, rolling all these losses into one huge loss. She cannot wrap her head around being the only one left. Her friends have all passed away as well. She's aware that she needs to let go, but is overwhelmed with the sole survivor thing. I've talked with her about letting them go and told her she'll see them again one day. We've talked about focusing on the positive - what she has rather than what she's lost. But, we all know, talk is cheap. I understand how she must feel. So, I thought I'd present her problem here as it has been going on for 3 weeks now - this deep, dark depression. Perhaps y'all might write a reply here for her that will help her and I can print them out for her to read. I don't wish to put her on an anti-depressant. I do wish to bring her back here to the land of the living.
Sending the Love,
Connie
Might she benefit from a few sessions or group meeting with a grief counselor? Not everyone would, but give it some thought.
I think it is way too soon to make conclusions about an anti-depressant, but if this continues or worsens, then please do consider having her see a doctor for medical intervention in the form of medication and/or talk therapy.