Family visiting for graduation brings grandma with dementia

DEAR ABBY:

My ex-husband is coming to our small town to celebrate our daughter's graduation. He is bringing along his parents. I'm happy they are coming to show love and support for our daughter; however, his mother has dementia.

She's difficult to deal with now, and my ex doesn't manage the situation well. They take her to restaurants and hotels and allow very uncomfortable scenes to play out - like sending food back (every single time) or allowing her to accuse the housekeeping staff of thievery. Rather than rationally deal with the problem themselves, they put the staff in a very awkward position.

The poor woman has a mental condition. It isn't a secret to the rest of us. I have figured out techniques to deal with her. I am going to cook some meals for them while they are here, but based on my work schedule, that's all I can do. Should I call ahead to the hotel and restaurants to warn them of the impending storm?

- Hurricane Insanity

DEAR H.I.: If you are known at the restaurants, you should definitely call ahead and speak to the manager about the fact that the poor woman is "not well." I'm sure it would be appreciated, and perhaps the party can be seated in a private area of the restaurant.

When someone has dementia, there comes a point where they should be kept in familiar surroundings to avoid situations in which the person can become agitated. This may be what's happening with your ex-mother-in-law when she finds herself in an environment she's not used to.

The Alzheimer's Association hosts support groups for caregivers and for families with loved who have dementia. In these groups, coping techniques are discussed. Your ex might benefit by reaching out, preferably before he and his mother make the trip. He can contact the association at www.alz.org or by calling the 24/7 help line at 1-800-272-3900.

Might as well see about rekindling the romance

DEAR ABBY: You know the adage, "You don't know what you've got 'til you lose it"? In 2009, before I was deployed to Kuwait, I was in a short relationship with "Donna." Because I didn't want her to worry about me while I was gone, I ended it and broke her heart. (Big mistake.) When I came home, Donna had moved away, and I lost her phone number when my old phone broke. Since then, I have not been in any relationships, and not a day goes by that I don't think about and miss her and the inside jokes we had together. Lately, it has gotten worse.

I know Donna's sister still lives here. Should I go and ask her about Donna, and how she's doing and where she is now, and whether she'll contact her for me? Or should I just keep trying to get over her?

- Regretting It in the West

DEAR REGRETTING: What are you waiting for? Nothing ventured, nothing gained. By all means, talk to Donna's sister, who might enjoy being able to play the role of Cupid.

If Donna is still single and available, she may be as glad to see you as you will be to see her.