MEMORIES

Christmastide, invariably has the effect of summoning up memories, both good and not so good, for most people. It affords a time, amidst the hustle and bustle, if only briefly, to remember times and people from both our present and past life. For some, this can be as traumatic as it can be enjoyable for others, dependent on their individual life's journey so far.

I am increasingly finding that, even though my short-term memory retention is gradually diminishing, the long-term memory of events, places and people from times long past, is increasingly active. Now the other interesting and beneficial aspect is that the clarity of things pleasant from the past is the main focus and the few unpleasant experiences have gradually dissipated, to the same degree that ability to recall the positive and enjoyable times and relationships has increased. Whether this is purely as a result of my particular positive psychological make up and attitude to life, I do not know. Maybe it is something that the majority of Dementees experience - interesting research project for some clinician maybe?!!

The above, is a positive aspect of the disease as far as I am concerned. If clarity of memory thought is, generally, only available to the positive aspects of one's past life, then this will help one, as far as possible, to maintain "A Good Life With Dementia".

In case I am not moved to write another blog before Christmas, I would like to wish any readers, wherever you live, a Happy Christmas and New Year. To the followers in Russia, a Happy New Year and celebration of Christmas in January.

To all Carers and fellow Dementors, Peace and Love.
JSAFGA