[Thespiritexpress] Dementia ~~~~~

[Spirit House]

~~~You may have already received this from other sources ~~~~ or you may have read it and just forgot… 

~ Here it is again if that is the case ~~~~ Lots of Love to everyone~!!!


Janice is a friend of 40 years who has Frontal lobe dementia. Her care-giver gave this to her husband.   
In honor of Janice-
 
“If I get dementia, I’d like my family to hang this wish list up on the wall where I live. I want them to remember these things.
 
If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality. If I think my spouse is still alive, or if I think we’re visiting my parents for dinner, let me believe those things. I’ll be much happier for it.
 
If I get dementia, don’t argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you.
 
If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me.
 
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.
 
If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious, hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me that my feelings are unfounded.
 
If I get dementia, I don’t want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am.
 
If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the things that I’ve always enjoyed. Help me find a way to exercise, read, and visit with friends.
 
If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past.
 
If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me.
 
If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated.
 
If I get dementia, make sure that there are plenty of snacks for me in the house. Even now if I don’t eat I get angry, and if I have dementia, I may have trouble explaining what I need.
 
If I get dementia, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room.
 
If I get dementia, don’t feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s not your fault, and you’ve done your best. Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live.
 
If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me often.
 
If I get dementia, don’t act frustrated if I mix up names, events, or places. Take a deep breath. It’s not my fault.
 
If I get dementia, make sure I always have my favorite music playing.
 
If I get dementia, know that I still like receiving hugs or handshakes.
 
If I get dementia, remember that I am still the person you know and love.”
 

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