Forget what you went in to the pantry for? Oh yes frequently! Did you eventually remember what you were going there for? Oh yes after a while. How do you eventually remember what you were going there for? I retrace my steps to where I first started and then rather than struggling to remember, say a couple of unrepeatable expletives to myself, although all this does is release a bit of tension. Waiting there for a few quiet moments thinking of something else entirely, invariably frees up the mental block and I remember the reason for going to the pantry. The secret then, is to set off post haste and get there before you forget again why you are there!!
Is the above frustrating? Yes and upsetting, on the first few occasions. Can it be embarrassing? Yes, particularly if it is in connection with getting something for a visitor who does not know about your condition. Can you overcome the frustration and upset? Yes after a few occasions, if one conditions oneself to see it as a small rather than another big obstacle to undertaking daily routines. The challenge is to not let such events disturb one's equilibrium or knock one off course. Always remember, (no pun intended) that sooner or later you will invariably recall the forgotten thought.
Now, one can, rightly, argue that it is all well and good saying "chill you will eventually remember what it is you are looking after" etc. However, in many circumstances, these lapses of memory are extremely inconvenient and may have potentially serious implications / repercussions. Yes this is true, like the time when, for no apparent reason, I put a pan of water on the stove and went off to church, having left it on the stove. Fortunately, on nearing the church,(maybe Divine intervention!) I realised I had left my spectacles at home, so I went back for them. On entering the kitchen, I saw the pan of water bubbling away with just a small amount of water left in it!! While turning it off, I could recall lighting it, but to this day, I still don't know why I put it on in the first place!!
Apart from the extreme type of memory lapse, referred to above, I now find that many of the lapses I experience, can be best managed in as calm and philosophical manner as possible. I am now at the stage, maybe dangerously so, of viewing such occasions as an opportunity to "move on", thinking of something else, not to dwell on the wrong note played by one instrument, but rather listening to the orchestra complete the piece. This "moving on" I find helps prevent getting bogged down by the stultifying frustrations
of dwelling on what one has missed. Rather, I try and look for the next opportunity for the brain to focus on assisting with something positive / creative. This can be a reflection on happy memories of times past, the appreciation of the beauty of the present moment, or the anticipation that, for every major / minor slip up, there is still always another opportunity to broaden one's horizon.
WE DO NOT HAVE TO RELY ON MEMORY TO ENJOY TODAY!
JSAFGA.
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Tuesday, 12 July 2011
MAKING THE MOST OF THE NOW
The uncertainty of a long-term progressive condition, of indeterminable length and an unquantifiable speed of progression, presents one with the necessity to consider various options on how to deal with the situation. In my case, I was fortunate that dementia was diagnosed, as far as I can recall, only a few weeks before my wife and I were due to leave Wales, to move to our current home in the Peak District in England. We had, only a few months prior, decided to move away from the area, where we had spent nearly 30 years of our professional working lives. Now we were going back to our roots, nearer to the area we had left in 1977.
We had agreed that, under the circumstances, we would sooner make the enforced fresh start of early retirement in the countryside, in a village where we were not known to anyone. This move has proved to have been most beneficial for a number of reasons. These include the initial anonimity, which avoided the stress associated with necessarily coming into contact with former colleagues and other persons from our respective professional and social circle and endless explanations as to the why and wherefore that our lives had changed so dramatically plus the well meant, yet unhelpful, comiserations.
We have been able, during this past four years, to settle in as members of a small village community, without the stresses and expectations of us, associated with life in Wales. We managed to do this initially by not informing anyone we were leaving and then only informing three or four close friends on the morning we departed. We new that from here on in we had to put ourselves first and that any upset that others might have, at not being informed we were moving or where we were going to, would have to be for them to deal with, as we had our own issues with which to cope!!
This was the start of the Making the Most of the Now. We now had to focus on dealing with this new phase in our life and having only recently received this latest item of medical luggage, we couldn't and were not prepared, to fit items of anyone else's in our Life's suitcase at that time. There are one or two individuals who still consider it was unreasonable that we did not say goodbye. However, I view that as their problem and hopefully, one day, they may resolve it, for themselves!!
When living on the coast in Wales, among the hobbies I particularly enjoyed were, sailing and fishing. Both these activities were governed by the changing tides. In analogous terms, I associate my dementia with the tide. High water was the day prior to diagnosis and fortunately, as far as my mental capacity at that time was concerned, it was a Spring tide, i.e. the highest of the year. It has, during the past few years, turned and is slowly retreating.
Often, when fishing from the shore, the largest fish are caught just as the tide turns and starts to go out. I am making the most of this exciting time, undertaking mental fishing, mainly through writing and meditation, and exercise, while out walking with Blossom over the meadows. I thank God that I have been given the opportunity to be able to undertake these pursuits, that are enabling me to "MAKE THE MOST OF THE NOW".
I am, as with other dementiates, only able to be "MAKING THE MOST OF THE NOW", because I have a loving, supportive, caring, wife on whom to rely.
JSAFGA
We had agreed that, under the circumstances, we would sooner make the enforced fresh start of early retirement in the countryside, in a village where we were not known to anyone. This move has proved to have been most beneficial for a number of reasons. These include the initial anonimity, which avoided the stress associated with necessarily coming into contact with former colleagues and other persons from our respective professional and social circle and endless explanations as to the why and wherefore that our lives had changed so dramatically plus the well meant, yet unhelpful, comiserations.
We have been able, during this past four years, to settle in as members of a small village community, without the stresses and expectations of us, associated with life in Wales. We managed to do this initially by not informing anyone we were leaving and then only informing three or four close friends on the morning we departed. We new that from here on in we had to put ourselves first and that any upset that others might have, at not being informed we were moving or where we were going to, would have to be for them to deal with, as we had our own issues with which to cope!!
This was the start of the Making the Most of the Now. We now had to focus on dealing with this new phase in our life and having only recently received this latest item of medical luggage, we couldn't and were not prepared, to fit items of anyone else's in our Life's suitcase at that time. There are one or two individuals who still consider it was unreasonable that we did not say goodbye. However, I view that as their problem and hopefully, one day, they may resolve it, for themselves!!
When living on the coast in Wales, among the hobbies I particularly enjoyed were, sailing and fishing. Both these activities were governed by the changing tides. In analogous terms, I associate my dementia with the tide. High water was the day prior to diagnosis and fortunately, as far as my mental capacity at that time was concerned, it was a Spring tide, i.e. the highest of the year. It has, during the past few years, turned and is slowly retreating.
Often, when fishing from the shore, the largest fish are caught just as the tide turns and starts to go out. I am making the most of this exciting time, undertaking mental fishing, mainly through writing and meditation, and exercise, while out walking with Blossom over the meadows. I thank God that I have been given the opportunity to be able to undertake these pursuits, that are enabling me to "MAKE THE MOST OF THE NOW".
I am, as with other dementiates, only able to be "MAKING THE MOST OF THE NOW", because I have a loving, supportive, caring, wife on whom to rely.
JSAFGA
Monday, 11 July 2011
SECLUSION V ISOLATION
Today has been a reminder to try and get the balance right, if that is possible, between the benefits and peacefulness of seclusion in one's own quiet space and the risks associated with shutting oneself out from everyone and everything.
Fortunately, I am never totally alone, as Blossom, my springer spaniel companion, is constantly with me, whether we are out walking the meadows or when I am in my room relaxing, emailing, reading, watching TV or snoozing. The only place she does not accompany me, is when I am working in the garden, either cutting the lawn or on the veg patch. This degree of none verbal companionship has a lot to be said for it, in so far as, it does not present the type of stresses and strains that contact with other people, occasionally does.
I do not think it is particularly beneficial for anyone to be in total isolation other than for a very short period. However, a degree of occasional seclusion is likely to benefit most people. A time to switch off, to relax, to reflect on issues, to recharge one's batteries, to see a brighter horizon beyond the clouds.
I am currently having to work at getting, what for me will be, a healthy balance in relation to the above. Periods of seclusion can be interpreted as withdrawal and not wishing to communicate and to a degree, it is. However, not necessarily in the way that it might be perceived by others. I find it helps with, clarity of thought and presents the opportunity to sort the wheat from the chaff, in respect of so many aspect of human behaviour, including my own. However, too much seclusion could ultimately lead to isolation, which may then create far greater communication problems both within the home and with others.
In summary, as with most things, a balanced approach usually results in the best outcome.
JSAFGA
Fortunately, I am never totally alone, as Blossom, my springer spaniel companion, is constantly with me, whether we are out walking the meadows or when I am in my room relaxing, emailing, reading, watching TV or snoozing. The only place she does not accompany me, is when I am working in the garden, either cutting the lawn or on the veg patch. This degree of none verbal companionship has a lot to be said for it, in so far as, it does not present the type of stresses and strains that contact with other people, occasionally does.
I do not think it is particularly beneficial for anyone to be in total isolation other than for a very short period. However, a degree of occasional seclusion is likely to benefit most people. A time to switch off, to relax, to reflect on issues, to recharge one's batteries, to see a brighter horizon beyond the clouds.
I am currently having to work at getting, what for me will be, a healthy balance in relation to the above. Periods of seclusion can be interpreted as withdrawal and not wishing to communicate and to a degree, it is. However, not necessarily in the way that it might be perceived by others. I find it helps with, clarity of thought and presents the opportunity to sort the wheat from the chaff, in respect of so many aspect of human behaviour, including my own. However, too much seclusion could ultimately lead to isolation, which may then create far greater communication problems both within the home and with others.
In summary, as with most things, a balanced approach usually results in the best outcome.
JSAFGA
Saturday, 9 July 2011
COMMUNICATION CONT
I have decided to be less specific than had been stated in yesterday's blog. It was going to be too complex and I do not feel up to attempting it for the time being. I will instead, give below, tasters of some of the categories of communicatees to which I referred:-
Majority of communication with the family, is done through email, as none of them live nearby, so that, fortunately, suits my preferred method.
Finding it difficult to continue with this communication section! On reflection, I suppose that this should not be too surprising, as it is one of the main areas of my life affected by the onset of dementia. I find conversation with persons who are not concise and get to the point quickly, quite irksome. I think this may be because of the difficulty I find trying remain focused on what they are saying. This sometimes results in a brusque request / comment, to them to say what they mean. With people / friends who know me this now rarely causes offence, as they understand that I am trying to focus on what they are saying. Close friends have kindly adjusted their communication style accordingly, to compensate for my deficit in this area.
Being conscious that others have to adjust their method of communication for my benefit, while they are very kind for doing so, it is, never the less, annoying and frustrating, as it is a constant reminder of faculty diminution.
To date, I have found that shop assistants and the like have always been most understanding and helpful when, on occasions, I have had to deliberate on issues and been slower than others, to be able to communicate my requirements, or ask for clarification about what they have said.
It is probable that the increasing preference for periods of solitude rather than socialising, is the result of the issues surrounding communication.
Reaction to people, situations and change, are diverse, to say the least!!
Majority of communication with the family, is done through email, as none of them live nearby, so that, fortunately, suits my preferred method.
Finding it difficult to continue with this communication section! On reflection, I suppose that this should not be too surprising, as it is one of the main areas of my life affected by the onset of dementia. I find conversation with persons who are not concise and get to the point quickly, quite irksome. I think this may be because of the difficulty I find trying remain focused on what they are saying. This sometimes results in a brusque request / comment, to them to say what they mean. With people / friends who know me this now rarely causes offence, as they understand that I am trying to focus on what they are saying. Close friends have kindly adjusted their communication style accordingly, to compensate for my deficit in this area.
Being conscious that others have to adjust their method of communication for my benefit, while they are very kind for doing so, it is, never the less, annoying and frustrating, as it is a constant reminder of faculty diminution.
To date, I have found that shop assistants and the like have always been most understanding and helpful when, on occasions, I have had to deliberate on issues and been slower than others, to be able to communicate my requirements, or ask for clarification about what they have said.
It is probable that the increasing preference for periods of solitude rather than socialising, is the result of the issues surrounding communication.
Reaction to people, situations and change, are diverse, to say the least!!
Friday, 8 July 2011
ISSUES REGARDING COMMUNICATION
There are, no doubt, a multitude of issues relating to communication, specifically associated with dementia.
The issues referred to above, will relate both to the dementing individual, the family, carer / carers, relatives, health professionals, friends, neighbours, members of the community in which the dementee resides, former colleagues, new acquaintances, members of the public, to name but a few!! In this blog, I will not be able to deal with all those mentioned, so will commence in the order stated.
From a personal perspective, the least stressful and the most fluent way for me to communicate is through the use of word processing and emailing, hence this blog. Even the daily one to one spoken communication with my wife, increasingly requires greater concentration on my part, to grasp what she has said and then to be able to make the appropriate verbal response or to undertake a task. A degree of checking out now has to be undertaken, to be sure I have correctly absorbed what has been said. It can occasionally, be even more confusing / stressful when a number of people are present and taking part in discussion. I use the word stressful advisedly, as there is a degree of stress and frustration brought on by not being as acutely aware and mentally alert in such circumstances, as one was in the past.
An associated example of the above, has occurred when my wife and I have gone out to town together and then arranged to meet up at a particular time and location. On a couple of occasions, due to my mild confusion, I failed to appear in the right place at the right time. As a result, I then started to write down the time and location where we were due to meet. However, we now always meet at the same location, quarter of an hour before the bus is due for the return journey. I have the bus timetable with me and therefore mark the time that the bus will be due to leave.
TIP:- Once a recurring issue has been identified, either by yourself or your carer, discuss it and together work out an agreed, simple, solution, as soon as possible. This helps reduce the frustrations, stresses and strains for all concerned, arising from recurring issues.
Wow, only dealt with some aspects of one issue re communication!! Enough is enough for today!
JSAFGA
The issues referred to above, will relate both to the dementing individual, the family, carer / carers, relatives, health professionals, friends, neighbours, members of the community in which the dementee resides, former colleagues, new acquaintances, members of the public, to name but a few!! In this blog, I will not be able to deal with all those mentioned, so will commence in the order stated.
From a personal perspective, the least stressful and the most fluent way for me to communicate is through the use of word processing and emailing, hence this blog. Even the daily one to one spoken communication with my wife, increasingly requires greater concentration on my part, to grasp what she has said and then to be able to make the appropriate verbal response or to undertake a task. A degree of checking out now has to be undertaken, to be sure I have correctly absorbed what has been said. It can occasionally, be even more confusing / stressful when a number of people are present and taking part in discussion. I use the word stressful advisedly, as there is a degree of stress and frustration brought on by not being as acutely aware and mentally alert in such circumstances, as one was in the past.
An associated example of the above, has occurred when my wife and I have gone out to town together and then arranged to meet up at a particular time and location. On a couple of occasions, due to my mild confusion, I failed to appear in the right place at the right time. As a result, I then started to write down the time and location where we were due to meet. However, we now always meet at the same location, quarter of an hour before the bus is due for the return journey. I have the bus timetable with me and therefore mark the time that the bus will be due to leave.
TIP:- Once a recurring issue has been identified, either by yourself or your carer, discuss it and together work out an agreed, simple, solution, as soon as possible. This helps reduce the frustrations, stresses and strains for all concerned, arising from recurring issues.
Wow, only dealt with some aspects of one issue re communication!! Enough is enough for today!
JSAFGA
Thursday, 7 July 2011
THE BENEFITS OF EXCERCISE CONT
Today, I wish to continue the exercise theme and the benefits to me of the same.
Initially, six years ago, the extent and duration of the daily exercise undertaken was extremely limited and was confined, at the time and for the first 12 months, to a gentle walk along the beach. This gradually built up, in the following 18 months, to going with Blossom for daily walks in the wooded area near home. In addition, a twice weekly swim in a local pool was added to the self devised exercise programme. Walking was involved both too and from the pool. I could no longer drive, due mainly to concerns regarding the lack of spacial judgement and reflexes / reaction times.
Our move to the current home in the hills, facilitated a gradual increase in the amount of walking undertaken, to the present levels, combined with a weekly swim. In the past four years there have been two further TIAs. However, a rapid recovery, following each one, did not interrupt the daily routine for long. In addition, a limited amount of gardening is undertaken.
The significance of ensuring that I can undertake the above daily exercise routine is vital, as far as I am concerned. It has provided physiological benefits, including a stone weight loss and reduced breathlessness. Just as significant and equally beneficial, has been the psychological benefit the solitude and pressure free walks over the meadows with Blossom provide. Issues are able to be thought through, in a time free manner, facilitating a philosophical approach.
I have recently considered what the situation would be and how I would cope if, for whatever reason, I was no longer able to undertake the current level and type of exercise. It is a question that I do not find easy to contemplate. However, I do appreciate there are many dementia sufferers who can no longer undertake the activities that they previously could. In summary, my response to this question is to continue to adopt the current approach i.e. making the most of all the faculties and abilities I have available to me at the time.
The longer the gradual delay to the increase in the debilitating and incapacitating effects of the disease can be
achieved, the better. I am currently of the opinion, that in my case, exercise is greatly assisting the achievement of this objective.
JSAFGA
Initially, six years ago, the extent and duration of the daily exercise undertaken was extremely limited and was confined, at the time and for the first 12 months, to a gentle walk along the beach. This gradually built up, in the following 18 months, to going with Blossom for daily walks in the wooded area near home. In addition, a twice weekly swim in a local pool was added to the self devised exercise programme. Walking was involved both too and from the pool. I could no longer drive, due mainly to concerns regarding the lack of spacial judgement and reflexes / reaction times.
Our move to the current home in the hills, facilitated a gradual increase in the amount of walking undertaken, to the present levels, combined with a weekly swim. In the past four years there have been two further TIAs. However, a rapid recovery, following each one, did not interrupt the daily routine for long. In addition, a limited amount of gardening is undertaken.
The significance of ensuring that I can undertake the above daily exercise routine is vital, as far as I am concerned. It has provided physiological benefits, including a stone weight loss and reduced breathlessness. Just as significant and equally beneficial, has been the psychological benefit the solitude and pressure free walks over the meadows with Blossom provide. Issues are able to be thought through, in a time free manner, facilitating a philosophical approach.
I have recently considered what the situation would be and how I would cope if, for whatever reason, I was no longer able to undertake the current level and type of exercise. It is a question that I do not find easy to contemplate. However, I do appreciate there are many dementia sufferers who can no longer undertake the activities that they previously could. In summary, my response to this question is to continue to adopt the current approach i.e. making the most of all the faculties and abilities I have available to me at the time.
The longer the gradual delay to the increase in the debilitating and incapacitating effects of the disease can be
achieved, the better. I am currently of the opinion, that in my case, exercise is greatly assisting the achievement of this objective.
JSAFGA
Wednesday, 6 July 2011
DOES EXCERCISE HELP?
I am mindful that, as with many aspects of individual lives, there is no "one fits all" solution. This is particularly relevant regarding health issues. As we know, what works for one, is of no value to another. I therefore intentionally commence today's blog with acknowledgement that this is the case. I appreciate that, anything I state in these submissions that I find useful, will not be appropriate for others.
Following the two Strokes that preceded the official diagnosis of my dementia, I undertook numerous physiotherapy sessions in order to strengthen the left leg and to improve balance. This treatment was effective and in conjunction with it, I commenced a daily walking regime. This was enhanced by the purchase of a Springer Spaniel pup, Blossom, my constant / faithful walking companion these past 6years. Living in the hills, I take a shooting stick with me on each of the two daily walks we undertake over the meadows. This useful piece of equipment acts both, as a balance aide and also provides a seat, when required.
Irrespective of the weather conditions, snow, hail, rain, fog or shine, Blossom and I undertake a 1.5 to 2hour walk over the meadows each morning after a piece of toast and a cup of tea. This is followed by a further hour walk before the evening meal. The extremes of weather enhance the experience and a good supply of ex sailing, well insulated waterproofs and wellingtons, ensures that the weather is not permitted to spoil the enjoyment of our exercise. Having Blossom joining me on these exercise sessions is a real tonic and greatly enhances the experience. Watching her leap the stone walls, spring pheasant, chase rabbits and hare, provides a massive amount of joy and vicarious pleasure. This is further enhanced by the accompaniment of Pavarotti or Rolling Stones on the old MP3 player or listening to the radio while walking.
Sometimes, the music and radio are turned off, and time is spent sitting quietly, taking in glories of nature in silence and letting the mind blow in the wind. Out there in the hills, there are no concerns about having to focus on saying the right thing or upsetting others with an unwarranted outburst. There is only the wonder and beauty of creation at which to marvel. The stresses associated with occasional confusion, memory loss, the need to focus on essential undertakings and having to acknowledge you are not as you were, not as others once new you, are now gone - disappearing aboard the clouds as they float by. The blue sky, as it appears, provides a new hope/ optimism and realisation that each day STILL PROVIDES new opportunities to excel and to achieve. Not in the manner of one's former life, but, on good days, to explore new ways of maximising one's potential. Like Blogging for instance!!
Enough for today!
JSAFGA.
Following the two Strokes that preceded the official diagnosis of my dementia, I undertook numerous physiotherapy sessions in order to strengthen the left leg and to improve balance. This treatment was effective and in conjunction with it, I commenced a daily walking regime. This was enhanced by the purchase of a Springer Spaniel pup, Blossom, my constant / faithful walking companion these past 6years. Living in the hills, I take a shooting stick with me on each of the two daily walks we undertake over the meadows. This useful piece of equipment acts both, as a balance aide and also provides a seat, when required.
Irrespective of the weather conditions, snow, hail, rain, fog or shine, Blossom and I undertake a 1.5 to 2hour walk over the meadows each morning after a piece of toast and a cup of tea. This is followed by a further hour walk before the evening meal. The extremes of weather enhance the experience and a good supply of ex sailing, well insulated waterproofs and wellingtons, ensures that the weather is not permitted to spoil the enjoyment of our exercise. Having Blossom joining me on these exercise sessions is a real tonic and greatly enhances the experience. Watching her leap the stone walls, spring pheasant, chase rabbits and hare, provides a massive amount of joy and vicarious pleasure. This is further enhanced by the accompaniment of Pavarotti or Rolling Stones on the old MP3 player or listening to the radio while walking.
Sometimes, the music and radio are turned off, and time is spent sitting quietly, taking in glories of nature in silence and letting the mind blow in the wind. Out there in the hills, there are no concerns about having to focus on saying the right thing or upsetting others with an unwarranted outburst. There is only the wonder and beauty of creation at which to marvel. The stresses associated with occasional confusion, memory loss, the need to focus on essential undertakings and having to acknowledge you are not as you were, not as others once new you, are now gone - disappearing aboard the clouds as they float by. The blue sky, as it appears, provides a new hope/ optimism and realisation that each day STILL PROVIDES new opportunities to excel and to achieve. Not in the manner of one's former life, but, on good days, to explore new ways of maximising one's potential. Like Blogging for instance!!
Enough for today!
JSAFGA.
Tuesday, 5 July 2011
WHY AM I SHARING THE DEMENTIA JOURNEY?
Today I have to examine further, why I now wish to share with the world the dementia journey.
I consider it important, for my own, as well as any potential readers sakes, to examine why I think this form of sharing is appropriate / necessary. Maybe it is a combination of ego, showmanship, wishing to tell my own story, rather than being the recipient of well meaning health professionals interpretation of where I am and where I should be. The filling of the void, between what was and what is. Maybe a wish to be more easily understood / to be more understanding. Possibly the hope that written expression will provide a deeper insight into where this journey is taking both myself and the passengers who are having to accompany me.
As mentioned in yesterday's submission, the suggestion regarding the possibility of my undertaking a Blog was made to me six years ago. It is only now that, for whatever reason, I have suddenly had the urge to write one. It is possible that, as I am becoming more aware of the developing nature of this state and it's affect on others, I have the need to open / broaden aspects of my communication, as other areas falter.
The increased reliance on support, for this otherwise extremely independently minded individual, was further illustrated today, when having undertaken my first blog yesterday, I omitted to note the full blog address and therefore could not access it this morning. An SOS email to my grandaughter requesting HELP, eventually resulted in her somehow extracting the site details from the blogosphere. Hence my being able to post this submission today. Thank God for the caring, helpfull, understanding folk, called grandchildren!!
I consider it important, for my own, as well as any potential readers sakes, to examine why I think this form of sharing is appropriate / necessary. Maybe it is a combination of ego, showmanship, wishing to tell my own story, rather than being the recipient of well meaning health professionals interpretation of where I am and where I should be. The filling of the void, between what was and what is. Maybe a wish to be more easily understood / to be more understanding. Possibly the hope that written expression will provide a deeper insight into where this journey is taking both myself and the passengers who are having to accompany me.
As mentioned in yesterday's submission, the suggestion regarding the possibility of my undertaking a Blog was made to me six years ago. It is only now that, for whatever reason, I have suddenly had the urge to write one. It is possible that, as I am becoming more aware of the developing nature of this state and it's affect on others, I have the need to open / broaden aspects of my communication, as other areas falter.
The increased reliance on support, for this otherwise extremely independently minded individual, was further illustrated today, when having undertaken my first blog yesterday, I omitted to note the full blog address and therefore could not access it this morning. An SOS email to my grandaughter requesting HELP, eventually resulted in her somehow extracting the site details from the blogosphere. Hence my being able to post this submission today. Thank God for the caring, helpfull, understanding folk, called grandchildren!!
Monday, 4 July 2011
A GOOD LIFE WITH DEMENTIA
Six years ago, following two strokes, I was diagnosed with dementia and medically retired at the age of 58 years. A few months later, one of the physicians suggested that I consider setting up a blog. The reason he made this suggestion, was because I was increasingly finding it easier to communicate via email rather than speaking face to face with individuals and having a telephone conversation.
So, for whatever reason, I have today, six years later, been moved to take up the above suggestion. I am hoping that this excercise will be of benefit to both myself and maybe other dementia card holders and/or their carers. I experience and my ever caring, loving, wife, has to share in my experience, of the majority of classic clinical symptoms of dementia.
I thank God, (I believe in God, but can assure you as many who knnow me will vouch, I am frequently not one of His or Her best representatives) that, so far, I am still enjoying a GOOD life, inspite of being aware and sometimes having to be made aware, of the ever creeping deterioration in a number of areas, e.g.acceptable/ unacceptable behaviour, (currently having issues regarding freedom of expression / rudeness to friends and aquaintances) and increased vocalised irritability. I am also currently trying to curb the unnecessary and inappropriate use of swear words, in place of thought out, appropriate responses.
Inspite of the above, life for me is GOOD, although this is tempered, on reflection, by the knowledge that life is not as GOOD, for those who have to cope with me. At the time, this behaviour seems to me to be reasonable and it is often only on reflection, or when pointed out, that I appreciate it wasnt.
In future blogs, I propose to share with any interested readers and with myself, personal insights / reflections on some aspects of both the positive and negative nature that the dementing state has had to offer so far.
I hope that anyone who joins me on this blogged journey, will enjoy the ride!
JSAFGA
So, for whatever reason, I have today, six years later, been moved to take up the above suggestion. I am hoping that this excercise will be of benefit to both myself and maybe other dementia card holders and/or their carers. I experience and my ever caring, loving, wife, has to share in my experience, of the majority of classic clinical symptoms of dementia.
I thank God, (I believe in God, but can assure you as many who knnow me will vouch, I am frequently not one of His or Her best representatives) that, so far, I am still enjoying a GOOD life, inspite of being aware and sometimes having to be made aware, of the ever creeping deterioration in a number of areas, e.g.acceptable/ unacceptable behaviour, (currently having issues regarding freedom of expression / rudeness to friends and aquaintances) and increased vocalised irritability. I am also currently trying to curb the unnecessary and inappropriate use of swear words, in place of thought out, appropriate responses.
Inspite of the above, life for me is GOOD, although this is tempered, on reflection, by the knowledge that life is not as GOOD, for those who have to cope with me. At the time, this behaviour seems to me to be reasonable and it is often only on reflection, or when pointed out, that I appreciate it wasnt.
In future blogs, I propose to share with any interested readers and with myself, personal insights / reflections on some aspects of both the positive and negative nature that the dementing state has had to offer so far.
I hope that anyone who joins me on this blogged journey, will enjoy the ride!
JSAFGA
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