28/06/2023
๐ฉทโค๏ธ๐งก๐๐๐๐๐ฉต๐ค๐โฃ๏ธ๐ค๐ฉถ๐ค๐๐
If I get dementia, Iโd like my family to hang this wish list up on the wall where I live. I want them to remember these things.
1. If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality. Just go with it & have fun!
2. If I think my spouse is still alive, or if I think weโre visiting my parents for dinner, let me believe those things. Iโll be much happier for it.
3. If I get dementia, donโt argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you.
4. If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me, and I may not even recognize my own reflection in the mirror.
5. If I get dementia, and can no longer use utensils, do not start feeding me. Instead, switch me to a finger-food diet, and see if I can still feed myself first.
6. If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious, hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me that my feelings are unfounded. Sing or dance with me to distract and make me laugh.
7. If I get dementia, I donโt want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am. Donโt talk to me like Iโm stupid, and donโt let anyone else do it.
8. If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the things that Iโve always enjoyed. Help me find a way to do some of it.
9. If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past, even if itโs the same one you always hear.
10. If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me. Be patient. Iโm probably frustrated because I canโt express myself, Iโve lost my independence, Iโm not feeling well, or Iโm feeling fearful or anxious.
11. If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated.
12. If I get dementia, make sure that there are plenty of snacks for me. Even now, if I donโt eat I get hangry, and if I have dementia, I may have trouble explaining what I need.
P.S. ~ I love sweet treats.
13. If I get dementia, donโt talk about me as if Iโm not in the room. Donโt let anyone else do it.
14. If I get dementia, donโt feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Itโs not your fault, and youโve done your best. Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live.
15. If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me often.
16. If I get dementia, donโt act frustrated if I mix up names, events, or places. Take a deep breath. Itโs not my fault. Iโm trying.
17. If I get dementia, make sure I always have my favorite music playing within earshot. Turn my favorite show on.
18. If I get dementia, and I like to pick up items and carry them around, help me return those items to their original place. Donโt accuse me of stealing stuff.
19. If I get dementia, donโt exclude me from parties and family gatherings. I need stimulation, whether I realize it or not.
20. If I get dementia, know that I still like receiving hugs, kisses, and touches. As a matter of fact, I need it.
21. If I get dementia, remember that I am still the person you know and love in this shell. I am still those memories. I still love you.
แดแดแดส แดษดแด
แดแดsแดแด in Honor of someone you know or knew who has dementia. In Honor of all those I know and love and lost who are fighting Dementia/Alzheimerโs. ๐๐
