Dear Abby: I can’t take care of new roommate who has dementia

DEAR ABBY: I have had an older man as a roommate for two months now. He’s very kind and intelligent. He also has dementia. I didn’t realize it when he moved in. He’s estranged from his family, although I know of a few people he does talk to on the phone.

As his condition worsens, so does his memory and his ability to understand simple explanations. I’m afraid that, as this continues, I’ll be obligated to take care of him. I am not capable of doing it, nor do I desire to. I don’t know how to handle this because I have asked him previously whom I should contact “in case of emergency” and got no reply. Help, please. — UNEQUIPPED IN FLORIDA

DEAR UNEQUIPPED: Initiating a conversation with your roommate about your concerns is critical, particularly while he is in EARLY stages of dementia. Be open and honest about your capabilities and find out what his plans are for long-term care as his dementia progresses. Ask if his friends or family know about his dementia and if they are part of his care team.

Stress to him the importance of making future care plans NOW, while he has a voice and control over these decisions. As his dementia progresses, these decisions will become increasingly difficult, and left undone, others might have to make decisions for him. While it’s important for you to press for answers to these important questions, try to be supportive. Your roommate may be having trouble coming to grips with his dementia. Fear, anxiety or even anger may be preventing him from taking steps to address it.

The Alzheimer’s Association website (alz.org) is a valuable resource for people living with the disease, as well as for their families and care partners. Those in early stages of the disease can find help there, including access to local support groups and care resources. It also has a free 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900) that provides reliable information and guidance for all who need support navigating their personal experiences with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

DEAR ABBY: I have been married for 32 years. Back in the mid-1990s, my husband cheated on me. A little over a year ago the woman he cheated with reached out to me via social media to apologize. She said she is now sober, has found religion and is trying to mend her wrongdoings. I never responded to her because I didn’t know what to say. I don’t hate her, but in my mind, if I say I forgive you, it’s like I’m agreeing with what she did — and I don’t. How do you tell someone you don’t forgive them? — APOLOGY NOT ACCEPTED

DEAR A.N.A.: Nothing requires you to say anything to the woman. However, if you decide to break your silence, the comment you made in your letter, “I don’t hate you, but in my mind, if I say I forgive you, it’s like I’m agreeing with what you did — and I don’t,” would suffice. It’s succinct, polite and conveys your feelings accurately. But don’t hold onto the grudge, because it is not healthy — for you.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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