This weekend my husband and I ventured to the local Master Gardners club plant sale. Members of the group were busy answering questions and pulling out their cell phones to find information if they did not know the answers. All of them were very eager to assist other plant lovers. It is always a fun adventure for us.
When we rolled our cart up to the table to pay we were greeted and someone pulled our tags to give us our total. Then it became very evident to us that the person taking our cash was extremely confused. Up until this point she made complete sense talking with us. My husband handed her a large bill and waited on change. She counted the money several times before handing us back the amount we owed and not our change. She only became more confused as someone tried to help her. The person assisting her explained that they were tired from the long day.
Walking to our truck my husband looking at me and asked, “Who is going to state the obvious first?. We have been around dementia enough to notice subtle signs of early stages. My heart hurts every time I notice these signs of early dementia when we are out in public. I want to wrap my arms around the person and tell them it is going to be alright. I want to pull the family aside and tell them to watch closely for further changes.
Family members do not want to see the changes. None of us do; however, they are real. Some of the things to take note of include:
using the wrong word for something
struggling to make decisions
unable to balance checkbook or count money
taking longer to do task or follow recipes
repeating questions or stories
a change in gait
getting lost driving
trouble navigating new places such as hotels, store or finding way to restroom and back in restuarants
change in eating habits (strong perference for sweets)
Do not assume the problems are Alzheimer’s Disease. This is just one form of dementia. Parkinson’s with dementia, Lewey Bodies, Vascular and others fall under the umbrella of dementia that can occur with aging. Consulting a physician early on about your concerns can lead to testing and evaluations for more answers. Many family physicians may give you a diagnosis of mild cognitive decline. This is vague and you may want to get a referral to a gerontologist or neurologist.
Be prepared to become an advocate for someone with mild dementia. Their world is becoming confusing and they need you to walk with them as a caregiver. Equip yourself with knowledge. Walk in faith that God is with you. Do not panic. You can do this!
My song today may hit hard. It should! I can never explain to you how important the visits with my mom were while she still knew who I was. You will see your loved one with new eyes. My mom who was never silly, became quite silly just like the father in the video is hiding behind his hamburger. Let this inspire you to make the visits, gives hugs and kisses and say I love you while you still can.
Word for Today
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. I Peter5:7
Prayer for Today
Dear God,
We are surrounded with people who are confused due to disease. Show us how to meet their needs. Help us to show patience when their confusion inconveniences us. Help to to show kindness when their confusion causes them to lash out. Give us peace when fear rushes in. Give us healing when our heart feels the loss of a relationship that once gave back but is now only able to receive. Teach us to be compassionate.
Amen
Song for Today
Walking Them Home 