Dutchy,
Don't you think denial is the first thing that happens? I know it did with us.

We used "old age" or "tired" and other things to dismiss what was going on with Daddy. He had an operation for corroded arties (probably misspelled) and had mini-strokes we were told (on the operating table) yet we even denied those. We pretended that the anesthesia they gave him was the cause of his mind wandering, forgetfulness, and hallucinations. And it worked, but after a few months, you have to wake up and admit there is something else going on, especially after he tells you that he's enjoyed the visit, but now he needs to go home to his REAL family.

JJ