Looking back over these two events, I see that it is possible for someone with dementia to continue being an active and supportive member of the community.  It is NOT easy sometimes, but life is not always easy.  Just the fact that I can still function so highly—even if it means gobs more time and effort than someone without dementia—tells me that early dementia is not an end to life.  It IS an end to life as I once knew it, but it does not end my potential for a positive and productive present. 

To my friends out there with dementia, keep plugging away.  Push yourself.  Play those brain games.  Do crosswords.  Listen to music and allow it to bring memories to the forefront.  Try to remember the artist.  Take time to just close your eyes sometimes and listen…what sounds can you identify?  (And, forgive me, but I must interject this:  if you close your eyes and you hear nothing—get your hearing checked!  Fifty percent of those aged 65 have some hearing loss.) 

Don’t give up!  Do whatever you can to make your brain pump “them there barbells”!!!