My mom had dementia, for seven years. I can remember mom forgetting to eat, forgetting to take her medicine, even though she thought she had. Losing the mom that I once knew was tough. These were difficult years for my mom and myself. The journey of forgetting memories. My personal stories are written in this book to give you support and encouragement on your journey. Once I was able to grasp what dementia meant, for my mom and for me, I was able to accept our circumstances. There would still be ups and downs. Then, once I was able to accept, we were able to have our old relationship back. This meant we could laugh - and did we ever! The main thing to remember is that you are the one that must adapt. Your loved one no longer has the mental capability for reason or logic. Remember, they are adapting to having dementia. Yes, they may know what you are saying. They can’t really digest it anymore, though, thanks to dementia entering into their lives. Are you struggling with taking care of your loved one or to move him/her into an assisted living facility? I struggled, too. My mom was adamant about not moving in with my husband and me so I honored that wish. Finding the right facility for mom was key, and hard. It took two facilities for us but the second one became mom’s home. She felt it and so I felt it. She called it home. Whenever we were out at a doctor’s appointment she always said, I’m ready to go home. She thrived in the environment of this facility. Her personality came back in full force - oh, the laughter we had! This also meant my stress levels were lowered because mom was happy and I knew it. Always remember your loved one is still present, still with you, and has feelings, even though they may not be able to express those feelings. I am with you on your personal journey. I am here to share stories of my mom, in hopes this resonates with your heart to find joy and even laughter, even during difficult moments. I can remember my mom, even during some of our most challenging times always saying, Let’s Laugh!
