Local man shares his role as caregiver to wife diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia

ARLINGTON, Va. (7News) — 7News is committed to bringing awareness to Alzheimer’s and other dementias during November.

Last week, 7News’ Adrianna Hopkins introduced you to Nick and Maureen Kalenich. Maureen lives with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). For the past few years, Nick has taken what he calls the 11th commandment “in sickness and in health” to heart.

RELATED | Alzheimer's Awareness Month: Local couple shares journey with Frontotemporal Dementia

They met and became engaged within 5 days, married 65 days later, and had what Nick called a beautiful marriage. The two traveled every chance they got and took selfies before they were trendy.

They told Adrianna this FTD diagnosis was not on their radar and was hard news to hear. Having worked in the medical field, Nick said he knows what’s coming.

His advice for others who might be in the process of testing for a diagnosis, or just received a diagnosis: immediately get your affairs in order.

“Legal Affairs, all your documents, Last Will and Testament, health care proxy, all of that stuff,” explained Nick. “Then make your house safe. Don't wait for it to happen, don't play catch up, because you won't be able to catch up, get it done in the front. Do something every day, no matter how minuscule it sounds, or how tired you are.”

To make his house safe, Nick switched out the carpet for wood floors. One symptom of frontotemporal dementia is a loss of balance and carpet can be a tripping hazard. He put up a gate blocking the staircase to the basement. He put anti-slip tape and lights on the stairs leading to their house. He meal plans for Maureen and creates easy-to-eat meals.

Nick also said to have patience because it's not your family member's fault that they have dementia.