Hi Leah,  I haven't spent much time at this site lately because my mom is gradually failing and my attention has been there a lot lately.  I had to spoon feed her today at dinner... a first for both of us.  Dementia takes away life's cherries leaving only the pits, it seems.  I believe that my mom's dementia is of the vascular variety, as well.  The problems showed up about a year after her stroke.  This week mom had no recollection of my oldest daughter.  That's sad because Angela used to spend a few weeks with mom at her waterfront condo every summer.  The two of them would walk down to the beach and feed the ducks, gather clam shells and just enjoy the white sand between their toes.  Mom doesn't remember it anymore.  Mom is 89-1/2 years old now, so she has had a good life for the most part.  It has been a long life for her and her health issues haven't been too severe, until now.  I try to temper my sadness about her present condition with thoughts of the many good years that she had before dementia started stealing her memories.  So, it is me taking stock of the good things in mom's life now. 

I admire your willingness to share your story with us.  Surround yourself with framed photos, Leah.  The pictures will help to keep the memories of the people and the events that inspired them alive.  It's fine to put a sticker on the glass that says who they are, too.  That way, the name and the face will keep being renewed in your mind.  It's an easy tool to help you remember and don't be embarrassed by it.  It's a medical condition, not a case of laziness.  Thank you for sharing your observations and feelings.  I always enjoy reading your blogs.  Best Wishes,  --  Joe  --    

Leah, Health Guide

6/24/10 11:50pm

You have a wonderful outlook on life, Joseph.  I know how painful it is to see your mom going downhill, but I admire the fact that you are so willing to do whatever it is that she needs--even spoon feeding her.  Your suggestion about the pictures is an excellent one, which I think I will start to do this summer.  Having the name on the picture is a good reminder of who it is and will help feeding my memory.  Writing seems to be getting a little more difficult for me...that, or I'm just having a bit of a writer's block...lol.  I've decided to chew on those pits that life is throwing me...maybe there's some nutrition content!!!...or cerebral help...   Thanks for commenting.  It means a great deal to me to know that my writing is touching others.  The feedback just encourages me to keep on writing!  God bless you and your mom, Joseph! 

Leah