After taking an informative and enlightened course on Dementia - and after becoming a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), I now have a newfound respect for families that continue to watch their loved ones struggle with this Illness.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, dementia is defined as, a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia.
But nowhere in that definition, did it say we should stop enjoying life with those with dementia. No where in the definition did it say we should stop talking to, loving on and reminiscing with our family members that are showing signs of memory impairment. Yes, it's great to talk about the here and now, but for an aging parent living with dementia, they want to rejoice in reminiscing. So go along on the journey down memory lane. That road could have many turns and even take you back to where you started - but regardless, go along!
The most impactful act you can do for someone who has memory impairment is meet them where they are. That will require your patience and understanding. But trust me, your visit will be more pleasurable if you go along on their journey down memory lane versus debating with them the facts of a recent event that you remember, but they may have already forgotten.
We all should take a moment and rejoice as we reminisce. We may find some fond memories back there.
