Someone with Dementia

To All God's Children,


-->Honestly, I feel that there’s something selfish in wanting the person to remember who you are. It doesn’t matter, as long as you love that person unconditionally for who they are, and as long as you recognize them. It’s almost as if it is embarrassing for our loved one to no longer recognize us. Once you can get pass the initial shock of that moment, you should love that person regardless and make due with what emotions you have left to share between you.
I’m positive that your loved one is much worst off than you are – at least you still have a clear memory and can take care of yourself. Be patient; it’s hard when people have short-term memory loss. It’s like waking up for the first time every five minutes. I would assume it’s a disorienting and disconcerting feeling not knowing where you are, where you’re going or who is around you.
There’s an old resident at a treatment center I used to work at who repeats himself every few minutes with the exact same fickle expression and countrified tone to his voice. “Hello.” He starts. “Good to see you,” if you happen to know his name. “You’re pretty,” if you’re a female. “What do you want me to do?” “Where are we going?” “Well, where are you going?” “What do you want?” “What are you going to do?” “Where are you from?” And if you say his hometown. “Well, that’s where I’m from.” And once he forgets everything all over again he’ll never ask “Who are you?” Instead, he offers his hand like a friendly introduction. “Hello. Good to see you.”

One day, standing in the hallway, I saw him alone with a desperate expression and scuffled hair offering his hand to every person passing by saying “Hello” repetitively hoping for one of the strangers to acknowledge him. He really was a nice old man, just lost within his own mind.

Peace be with you

Angels Book Series by D. C. Cowan