Living With A Chronically Ill Spouse

One of the greatest challenges with having a spouse with a chronic illness such as Alzheimer's or some other malady, is the resentment you feel toward your spouse. You remember the good times with your spouse and struggle with the grief, loss and anger you feel, and subsequent guilt for having those feelings. Your friends offer platitudes like 'For better or for worse,' but you never imagined you'd really have to live out those words. Getting away from your mate is often the only relief you get from the emotional weight of caregiving, but the ensuing guilt and reminder of the immense loss sometimes don't seem worth the effort. Yet, giving yourself permission to get away and enjoy yourself with friends will help you maintain your new life. Maintaining hobbies and other nourishing activities are critical to keeping your mental health. You cannot care for others unless you completely care for yourself first.