Denial

One automatically assumes that it is the patient who is in denial, but there are sometimes circumstances where the one in denial is the caregiver. Understandably so, after any diagnosis, life may never be the same again. It brings everything into question, and plans or dreams for the future have to be altered accordingly and in some cases shelved. Disappointment and frustration at a situation we cannot control can appear overwhelming.

Taking Parkinson’s medications, is a fine balancing act to receive optimum benefit, whilst trying to take the minimum amount of medicines one can at the present stage. Understanding the many complex difficulties incurred by those suffering the indignities of Parkinson’s is not easy. It may be that a caregiver just doesn’t get it, can’t appreciate why and how the many side effects and symptoms, despite medication, can’t be controlled some way.

Turning a blind eye doesn’t help anyone. It can only cause friction and upset between sufferer and caregiver. Yet too much attention can feel like being smothered – so it’s a fine line and understandably not easy for either party.  

Being a caregiver, and then finding the tables have turned is a common scenario. I have written about this topic in The Huffington Post.