“I thought I knew what grief would feel like” | Ricky’s story

10/09/24 • 27 min

My life with dementia | A Dementia UK podcast

Ricky and his gran, Harbaksh, always shared a special bond. He describes her as more of a third parent than a grandmother. She lived next door, and relished being able to talk to Ricky in Punjabi.

After several frustrating appointments with health professionals, Harbaksh was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in her 80s. Ricky was thrust into a caring role and set about learning everything he could about her condition.

This episode touches on the difficulties many people face in getting a diagnosis of dementia, the importance of culturally tailored care and the unpredictable nature of grief.

Further resources:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ricky and his gran, Harbaksh, always shared a special bond. He describes her as more of a third parent than a grandmother. She lived next door, and relished being able to talk to Ricky in Punjabi.

This episode touches on the difficulties many people face in getting a diagnosis of dementia, the importance of culturally tailored care and the unpredictable nature of grief.

Further resources:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

"Being a husband and a carer was a big adjustment" | James's story

James's late wife Maria was diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer's disease when she was 56 years old.

As a couple, they found themselves on an unexpected path – moving through the different stages that followed her diagnosis. James tried to strike the balance between maintaining his wife’s independence while ensuring her safety. It was a balance that became increasingly difficult.

In this episode, he shares his perspective on caring for Maria, from noticing early signs through to grappling with the move into full-time care. He also touches on the vital support he received from their dementia specialist Admiral Nurse.

Further resources:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next Episode

"Life doesn't stop when you get your diagnosis" | Gail's story

On Valentine’s Day in 2019, Gail's world changed forever. At 54 years old, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Initially, she felt numb. But in the following weeks and months, there were so many emotions – confusion, sadness and anger.

With the help of her dementia specialist Admiral Nurse, Gail was able to shift her focus to what she can do, rather than what she can’t. She decided to pursue passions she’d always held but never pursued – photography, arts, crafts and exploring nature.

This episode is about Gail’s approach to living well with dementia and maintaining an identity beyond her diagnosis.

Further resources:

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.