My Dad, My Hero

My dad is 87 years old. He is my hero and always will be, but a change has begun. My mom is 85 years young. They have been married for 66 years.

They’ve lived in the same condo for the past 20 years, and they love it. But a few months ago, my dad started losing his short-term memory, and now it’s really noticeable . He’ll ask the same question over and over again, sometimes within a five-minute span. His long-term memory is still intact, but the short-term loss has been progressing at a fast pace. He is developing Alzheimer’s, and it’s becoming tough to watch.

Many of my parents’ friends have already moved into retirement homes, and they’ve been encouraging my parents to do the same. After looking at a few places, my mom and dad finally found one that seems perfect. They can continue living together independently for now, but if my dad’s Alzheimer’s gets worse, there’s a special memory care floor where he can receive daily support — or even live full-time if needed. My mom can stay in her apartment as long as she’s able.

For my brothers and me, this is so difficult. We know this new home will give them safety, meals, laundry service, social activities, and much more – all the care they may need. But the hardest thing is looking into my dad’s eyes — eyes that sometimes seem so empty. Our hearts break every time.

Most of my friends lost their parents many years ago. Somehow, I thought that would never happen to me. But now, here it is. Watching my dad deteriorate is heartbreaking. Accepting it is even harder.

Through it all, my brothers and I will be there every step of the way — to help, to comfort, to support them. We must be strong, just as they were always strong for us.

We love them so much and will always show them how much we care, even if, one day, they begin to forget us.