When did you learn to count? Probably early in your childhood memories there’s an experience with numbers. Children like numbers because there’s an order, sequence, and pattern that’s easy to follow. Adults like numbers, too. We can count on 2 + 2 always equaling 4. We know that 8 always comes after 7.
We find that numbers are useful and serve many purposes.
Numbers help provide structure to the unstructured things around us. When things make sense, we feel a sense of accomplishment…even joy.
So if numbers are useful, make sense and can lead to a feeling of accomplishment, even joy, why aren’t those of us who are involved with friends and loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia spending more time counting? Could it be that we’re looking at this from an upside down viewpoint?
Why not refocus and remember to count the good things that surround us in this Alzheimer’s World? There’s so much that is difficult and disappointing and discouraging about dementia. There’s no denying that, but if we’re not careful that focus will become consuming. Then we’re emotionally empty and no help to anyone, including ourselves. We have a choice in what we count….and we Lady-Links choose to count the joys we see at every visit with our dear friends. How about joining us?
7 Things to Remember to Count
1. Friends who Care
Inspecting a Cloisonne bowl, a decorative design of various colors separated by copper wire attached to a brass base.
2. Unexpected Smiles
3. Celebrations Recognized
4. Contributions Made
5. Purposes Accomplished
6. Interests Explored
7. Joys Shared
Counting is a natural process for each of us as we go through the day. But what we count is a matter of choice. During our three years of Lady-Links visits to dear friends with dementia, we’ve seen plenty of things to count, but we’ve made a choice to count ways our love and laughter add to the equation and to know that the process isn’t over yet. What will you choose to remember to count?
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