It’s on all our minds as we age . . . “Will that be me in 5, 10, or 20 years?” Perhaps you know or love someone who can’t ask that question any longer because he or she can’t remember what to ask. The looming fear about the unknown is connected to the dreadful disease Alzheimer’s, a subcategory of dementia and a terminal diagnosis that turns the smartest and strongest into frightened shadows of who they used to be. Carol Spencer knows the story all too well; she cares for her knight in shining armor and husband of more than 30 years, Lew, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s several years ago.
Carol candidly offers compassion and wisdom that she’s gained from learning to navigate life in the midst of its never ending unknowns.
Watch the Interview
Interview Questions
- What was life like with Lew before Alzheimer’s, and what do you miss the most about life before the diagnosis?
- How did you come to accept the fact that Lew had Alzheimer’s and that he was going to have to depend on you now?
- How do you deal with the stress of the slow continued dependence on you?
- What have you learned through this experience, and what would you say to someone who is beginning this process?
- What have you discovered about yourself, and how has this turned into a blessing?
- As a caregiver for your husband with Alzheimer’s, how do you handle bad days?
- You decided the Lord would take control over your situation; how would you encourage someone who is starting a similar journey?
- What can you tell people who currently do not have a support system?
- What can you say to inspire caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients?
Let Me Hear from You
Without the Lord Jesus Christ in your life, there is no hope for the future . . . healthy or ill. Christ promises His strength, His comfort, His power, and His wisdom for all who believe and trust in Him. What are you waiting for? Scripture reminds us, “Nothing is impossible WITH God” (Luke 1:37 NLT, emphasis mine), even in the midst of Alzheimer’s. If you are in need, Insight for Living Ministries has a storehouse of resources to share with you. Please, take a moment to reflect on those who have lost all ability to remember. Memory . . . it’s a gift. Let’s remember that. For those who are caregivers, let’s connect today. Don’t wait . . . you are loved, and you are not alone. I hope to hear from you today!
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About Carol Spencer
Carol serves as the senior director of Resource Ministries at Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, where she is responsible for the church’s administrative and financial functions. Before joining Stonebriar in July 1999, Carol served as vice president and director of Investor Relations for a mid-cap investment banking firm. Her experience also includes a varied background in interior design, marketing, construction, and quarter horse ranching. She received her bachelor’s degree in English and Finance and continues to pursue further education in tax law, technology, and management. Carol and her husband, Lew, have three children and five grandchildren.
Resources
For help, information, research, advocacy, community connections, and caregiving, the following sites are suggested.
About Alzheimer’s Disease:
Senior Care Assistance and Support for Caregivers:
Insight for Living Ministries Resources
Audio Messages by Charles R. Swindoll:
- “Friends in Need”
- “Strengthening Your Grip on Encouragement”
- “Habakkuk: Wrestling, Waiting, Praying, Praising”