LightBridge

I have a friend with Alzheimer's disease, and her husband is her main caregiver. He recently came back from a week long sailing trip. My friend was very upset every day while he was gone. Now he plans another week long trip. Should he be traveling so often when it upsets her so much?

Hi Melissa,
I am not sure what kind of relationship you have with your friend's husband. Are you comfortable speaking to him about this situation? Depending on your relationship, it may not be productive or appropriate to tell him that you have made a judgment about whether he should or should not be traveling. You might let him know that your friend was very upset while he was away, and let him decide how to handle that information. On the other hand, if you two are very close, he may value your concern and opinion. You will have to decide what is appropriate in your relationship.
As for whether he should or should not be leaving on trips, what are the details of your friend's situation? How much care does your friend require? Is there someone else helping to care for her? Can the husband arrange for a close friend or family member to stay with her or make frequent visits during his absence? Do you think that the husband's absence is having a serious impact on your friend's well-being? How exactly does it affect her? Can you explain to your friend where her husband is and resassure her that he will be back? Can you or someone else comfort your friend? Why is your friend's husband traveling? Is it important for him to travel? Would it help if the husband called your friend during his travels and spoke to her on a regular basis?
These are things to think about and possibly discuss with the husband. Good luck.

This information is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice, read more at: http://www.lightbridgehealthcare.com/2838.xml