09-03-2014, 02:38 AM
I've seen this a couple times with elderly patients. It's heartbreaking, especially when they have been married (happily or not) for decades. The advice that has already been given is excellent, so I don't have much else to add.
Not to give him a pass, but I agree that your Dad is under a tremendous amount of stress himself. This is not how he envisioned spending their "golden years." Some counseling, a men's group, or dementia support group may help.
It's good that you already have caregivers around to keep an eye on her and that you are working on site frequently. Assuming the caregivers help her bathe, they can be on the lookout for any bruises that show up. Keep your siblings in the loop as well. They might not want to hear this, but it's important that they are up to speed on what may be happening.
Good Luck!!
Not to give him a pass, but I agree that your Dad is under a tremendous amount of stress himself. This is not how he envisioned spending their "golden years." Some counseling, a men's group, or dementia support group may help.
It's good that you already have caregivers around to keep an eye on her and that you are working on site frequently. Assuming the caregivers help her bathe, they can be on the lookout for any bruises that show up. Keep your siblings in the loop as well. They might not want to hear this, but it's important that they are up to speed on what may be happening.
Good Luck!!