Well, friends, it’s a three-teacup morning here in our cottage.
After two long days of gray skies (and I don’t mean the weather), my dear one with Lewy Body Dementia and Capgras Syndrome had been low in spirits. Heavy-hearted, tearful, and quieter than usual. His doctor recommended starting Lexapro. We gave it a go—and wouldn’t you know it, something lifted. His mood perked up a bit yesterday. Maybe the medication helped. Maybe the fog just moved on like a stubborn old storm. Either way, I exhaled.
But of course, Lewy doesn’t send RSVPs before showing up again.
At precisely 4:30 this morning—before the birds had even considered their first chirp—I was formally accused of stealing his phone contacts. That’s right, I apparently masterminded a full-blown sabotage of his entire digital Rolodex. I tried gentle explanations, but Lewy had locked in. Then, in his confusion, he called Emergency Services. (Hello, awkward call-back from dispatch.) And wouldn’t you know it? Two more accusations followed shortly after.
He also phoned me from the other room—because of course he did—and when I answered, he asked, “Can I help you?”
I replied, “You called me. Can I help YOU?”
And he goes, “Yeah, quit sabotaging my phone!”
So… we’re off to the races, folks. It’s gonna be one of those days.
I share this not for sympathy, but for solidarity. If your mornings include mystery crimes, mistaken identities, and confusing tech interrogations from a pajama-clad partner—you are not alone. These aren’t just stories. They’re survival chronicles. Real caregivers navigating real chaos, coffee in hand.
Let’s all take a deep breath and remind ourselves: it’s not personal. It’s Lewy.
We might not be able to stop the storms, but we can pack umbrellas and snacks.
With love and solidarity (and maybe a small yawn),
Nora Poppins ☕💜
Need a cozy little sanity-saver when the accusations start flying? Download “Accusations, Agitations and Early Wake-ups: A Caregiver’s Quick Survival Guide” – It’s in the “Caregiver Tips” section of Nora’s Nook Resource Library.
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This text really resonates with the daily struggles of caregiving. It’s comforting to know that others are navigating similar chaos with humor and resilience. The mention of “mystery crimes” and “pajama-clad partner” is so relatable—it’s like you’re describing my mornings! I appreciate the reminder that it’s not personal; it’s just part of the journey. The idea of packing umbrellas and snacks is such a great metaphor for preparing for the unpredictable. How do you manage to stay so positive and grounded in the midst of it all? I’d love to hear more about your strategies for keeping your sanity intact!
It’s so relatable how mornings can turn into a whirlwind of chaos without warning. Your description of “mystery crimes” and “pajama-clad interrogations” really hits home—it’s like every day is a new adventure, whether we’re ready or not. I love how you frame it as survival chronicles because, honestly, that’s exactly what it feels like. The reminder that “it’s not personal, it’s Lewy” is such a grounding perspective in the midst of it all. Packing umbrellas and snacks feels like the ultimate survival strategy for these unpredictable storms. Your honesty and solidarity make this feel less isolating, so thank you for that. Have you found any specific strategies or routines that help you navigate these chaotic mornings more smoothly?
Thank you, happened upon you somehow as I try to navigate caregiving for Dad from another state. Also curious about Capgras Syndrome.
Deni, I’m so glad you are here. You are doing such a tough thing — I also am responsible for the care of my mom (with Alzheimer’s) and dad — not in another state, but 225 miles from me, and with a hubby with LBD and Capgras syndrome, it is a very difficult thing. Capgras syndrome is also called “the imposter syndrome” — the person sees their primary caregiver/loved one as someone else. In our case, my hubby may recognize me as me, or he may be trying to evict me because “I don’t belong here.” It is so very confusing for him…..and for me.
Do you have anything specific that you would like addressed here? I am open to sharing what I’ve learned on this journey…