She is so sure, day and night, that her husband is still with her. The picture talks to her and she even has tried to feed him. She states that he is her husband and she is required to take care of him. She even has gone as far as to say he needs new clothes and shoes. But then states that she knows he can't do anything, that he just sits there and that he will go away some day. Very confused.
But that is a worry - are you making regular reports to your mother's doctor? Always do report changes in her functioning or her behaviour, and keep a journal.
As far as the new clothes and shoes redirect her and tell her that he looks just fine wearing what he is wearing. If there is another photo of him in other clothes you might want to bring that out just so she can see that he has a change of clothes with him.
This is one thing that you don't have to stress about as long as it is not upsetting to her and it does not sound like it is.
Your comment about your father being there to greet your mother was helpful. I can see that this would be a comfort to my own mother.
Thank you.
I wouldn't remind her that he is gone or that she is talking to a picture, just breeze past it.
In any case this must be hard for you, but I hope if you use it as a conversation starter it will be more interesting and less sad.
No other, recent changes worrying you?
Thank you for the advice.
Talking to a picture of her late husband as if he were there is harmless unless she is also exhibiting other odd behaviors. If it brings her comfort I don't see the harm in it.
Besides all the other challenges of aging, loneliness and depression are a constant problem. Mix in cognitive changes and we can only imagine how it causes their worlds to go off kilter. I grew up with an aunt for 20 years who no long knows who I am but also accuses me of very egregious things and gets very angry. I try so hard to remember her as who she used to be. It's very difficult. Blessings to you. Hang in there.
As for your Aunt, it is hard when they forget who you are and even harder for us to keep remembering that her reactions are from this horrible disease and it truly isn't her. I send my blessing to you, as well.