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22ndCenturyMedia.com Active Aging Guide 22nd century media | October 12, 2017 | 13 Ask Mary Ann: Parenting your parent with Alzheimer’s Question: Gradually, I’m becoming a parent for my parent. Is it normal to feel anxious and overwhelmed? Mary Ann: Yes, it’s very normal to be anxious, feel guilty and feel overwhelmed. I, myself, have experienced all of these emotions, having cared for my mother, who had dementia for many years. Often, when finding ourselves in the role of caregiver for a parent, we try to suppress our negative emotions, feeling guilty for even having them. Even if you have a great relationship with your mom or dad, there may still be some unresolved issues between you. So, feelings of guilt are very normal, as well. In your new role, you will have many feelings that you will work through, one at a time. I found it helpful to seek support, educate myself and share my feelings with others in the same situation. Doing so helped me to process and better understand my emotions, which, in turn, helped me learn to accept and cope with them. This is a journey that will evolve and change day to day as the disease progresses. You are joining your parent on this journey, and the more you understand it the easier it will be, not only for yourself but for your loved one, as well. Please know that I am available as a resource for you personally and professionally, now and/or in the future. At Emerald Place, we offer support groups and educational events. You can contact me at (630) 296- 6383 or mpappone@anthemmemorycare.com with your questions or to receive my monthly “Ask Mary Ann” newsletter. Mary Ann Pappone is community relations director for Emerald Place Memory Care. She spent more than 18 years caring for her mother, who had dementia. Submitted by Emerald Place Memory Care. For more information, visit www.anthemmemorycare. com or call (630) 296-6383 NO DRUGS. NO SURGERY. NO PAIN. APPROVED OVER 93% SUCCESS RATE Get connected to the most innovative pain treatment. Give your knees the cushioning and relief they need. Made from a natural substance GELSYN3 is a new FDA Approved treatment. Covered by Medicare and most insurances. NOW OPEN DOWNTOWN HIGHLAND PARK Glenview, Vernon Hills, Bloomingdale & Hinsdale 847.243.6744 www.PAINfreePAINrelief.com NOW OPEN DOWNTOWN HIGHLAND PARK Glenview, Vernon Hills, Bloomingdale & Hinsdale