North Port police continue to investigate the tragic case of an Alzheimer’s patient who killed his own wife in his home.
Officials are reminding caregivers that they’re not alone.
It’s unclear at this time if charges will be filed. But this sad story serves as a reminder.
If you have an elderly friend or loved one with mental illness, there are resources to help.
North Port police say 76-year-old Barbara Jones was the caretaker for her husband, 77-year-old Robert Jones.
Police records show Robert has suffered from Alzheimer’s disease for the past five years. According to records, Barbara told police she recently moved to the area and didn’t have an opportunity to make new friends and her family all live out of state.
On Saturday night, Robert pushed Barbara and she died of her injuries the next day.
“She was coherent at the scene but apparently she had some internal injuries that unfortunately took her life,” said NPPD spokesman Josh Taylor.
“It’s one of those cases where could it be he has no idea what he did.”
The state attorney will determine whether charges will be filed.
The Friendship Center in Sarasota provides resources for caregivers and the elderly. Paula Falk, the director of Caregiving Services, says it’s common for dementia patients to exhibit strange behaviors.
“There’s constant repetition that does occur with individuals with memory problems. That certainly can affect the caregiver, because they become frustrated,” said Falk.
Falk says caregivers don’t have to go at it alone.
“It has a lot to do with individuals learning that their loved one has changed and that they need to be able to understand that they’re communicating with someone with a diseased brain as opposed to the person they’ve been married to for 50 years,” said Falk.
There are resources, support groups, adult day services and many options available to help them during this difficult season.
“People believe that they can handle this, that they got this covered. At some point, you can’t do everything, nor should you,” said Falk.
Here are some helpful agencies to assist caregivers:
Florida Department of Elder Affairs
Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida
