How would you explain dementia?
We’ve used the umbrella example previously in which “dementia” is said to be an umbrella-type term for symptoms (such as the loss of memory, judgment, language, complex motor skills) with the specific types of dementia falling underneath the umbrella (such as Alzheimer’s, vascular, dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson’s disease dementia, frontotemporal dementia and many more).
This time, we wanted a new approach to help the Lady-Links in their understanding of how to maximize their visits with our dear friends who have dementia, so we used the varieties of Oreo cookies as an example of something that is different but somewhat the same.
The Oreo cookies are similar in their shape and design, but very different in their makeup. Somewhat like dementia don’t you think? Confusion, cognitive decline, memory loss are some of the similarities of dementia but the way the disease begins and progresses can be quite different.
We’ve learned that things don’t always stack up evenly when looking at the types of dementia, so we are flexible in what we plan for each visit to help each dear friend feel valued, loved,and appreciated. As a result, understanding the type of dementia each of our dear friends has and her stage of progression in that type of dementia should influence our choice of activities. And it does. With some dear friends we engage them in crafts. With others it’s music or games or show and tell. We know that one-size doesn’t fit all, and that each dear friend’s visit needs to be designed for her specific interests and abilities.
Understanding the types of dementia helps us to understand our dear friends better. If our dear friends could tell us how they feel, we know that they would want us to help them continue to be themselves, not letting the dementia dictate who they are. The following poem expresses how we think our dear friends with dementia feel….
DEMENTIA: DIFFERENT BUT SOMEWHAT THE SAME
By Dennie Lindsey
(a poem representing thoughts of our dear friends with dementia)
We look different
yet we’re somewhat the same.
And we’re so thankful that you know us more
than just by name.
You understand our many faces,
our moods and what we fear.
Yet you treat us with respect
and even call us dear.
You’re quick to acknowledge
that one size doesn’t fit all.
And you make such an effort
to be at our beck and call.
Some of us are sleepy
others are wide awake
Yet you’re able to meet each need
at every visit you make.
You know that we’re different
but we’re the same in this one way.
We want to feel that we’re valued
and you affirm that by what you do and say.
So, thank you Lady-Links
for taking the time to see
that dementia comes in various forms.
Yet you’re helping me to still be me.
Different, yes,,,, but similar because according to Psalm 139, each one of us, including our dear friends, is fearfully and wonderfully made. Let’s continue to treat one another with value and dignity regardless of cognitive ability and to find ways to help each of our dear friends be able to say, “I’m still me.”
Speak Your Mind