Find Senior Care (City or Zip)
Join Now Log In
O
Operator Asked January 2018

Is it normal to feel guilty for the littlest things?

Feeling guilty for being inpatient sometimes and frustrated for stepdad is moving things around and I can't find stuff! Also repeating story's over and over and over! I patiently act like its new every-time and hearing it for the first time, just tiring! Is it normal to say to stepdad to stop moving stuff around? I get frustrated and tell him to stop moving the stuff around I sometimes raise my voice then I calm down and realize he won't remember anyways so I end up apologizing to him but I feel just horrible after! The guilt is unbearable at times!

jeannegibbs Jan 2018
Telling him to stop moving stuff around is not going to change any thing, as you have already found out. Might as well save your breath and frustration. Many times they use the same hiding places again and again, making the search a little easier. And you might consider locking certain objects up, such as your sunglasses, the good scissors, your key ring, etc. If he's moved a box of Kleenex that has less serious consequences than if he's put your winter gloves in a new place.

If it helps any, for many persons with dementia this is a temporary behavior.

blannie Jan 2018
I think it's perfectly normal to feel guilty about losing your patience. I think every caregiver has been there and done that. Don't beat yourself up, just try to recognize that you're losing patience and walk into another room or go get a drink or step outside until you calm yourself back down.

Dealing with loved ones who repeat themselves can drive you crazy. My mom did that and I'd lose my patience too. Of course, she couldn't help it, but that didn't really make it any easier for me to hear the same question or comments over and over again. {{{Hugs}}}

ADVERTISEMENT


ADVERTISEMENT

Ask a Question

Subscribe to
Our Newsletter