Coping With Dementia

Mary Ann and Ernest Zepeda have been happily married for over 50 years. The past four years have been a struggle, however, as Ernest's mind slips further and further away as a result of Alzheimer's disease. I recently spent an afternoon with the couple as they shared memories-- or at least, for Ernest, what was left of them.

Mary Ann Zepeda, of Victoria, looks through old photo albums with her husband, Ernest, at their home in Victoria, Texas on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013.

For four years, Ernest Zepeda has struggled with dementia and the onset of Alzheimer's disease. His wife, Mary Ann, first became concerned when Mr. Zepeda seemed transfixed by hallucinations of people hiding in the bushes in the couple's backyard.

Since Mr. Zepeda's diagnosis, Mrs. Zepeda has sought support from church groups as well as educational books and DVD's on Alzheimer's disease.

Mary Ann and Ernest Zepeda walk through their living room at their home in Victoria, Texas on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013.

Since Mr. Zepeda's diagnosis, Mrs. Zepeda has taken full responsibility for his care.

Old cassette tapes line the wall at the Zepeda family's home in Victoria, Texas.

Despite Mr. Zepeda's deteriorating condition, he still finds time to play music, something he did professionally in the 1960's and '70's.

Victoria Advocate | October 4, 2013