With Alzheimer’s and Dementia, we’ve learned to go with the flow. No sense in trying to forget that we aren’t really in control anymore. Like the river above, many times we are flowing in the thick of the white water, dotted with boulders which stop our flow and cause us to swirl around certain subjects, over and over as we get caught up in that way of thinking. And then snap! We are freed again to continue on our way until the next one snags us.
But like the river, our days keep moving. There’s nothing like a little nap to refresh Mom’s tired brain after a long day. It suits us both when she goes into her room to lay down for awhile. To be honest, I think we both need a break from each other. The silence that ensues for a precious bit of time does us both good.
I know the disease is talking sometimes and it’s not really her. I am sure that may sound strange to you, but there are times that the words that come out of her mouth are so foreign to the Mom I know and love that I know it’s simply the disease talking. I sometimes refer to it as Mr. Hyde for those words can be hurtful and never would she ever intentionally hurt us. She is always a kind, gentle, Southern Lady first and foremost.
I’ve learned to redirect as much as I can when the going gets tough. Lucky for me, I have 2 cats who have a 6th sense to appear and helpfully distract us when we get too stuck on a sticky subject boulder. Their antics never fail to bring a smile to her face and to allow her mind to let go of her thoughts and concentrate on the giggles they always bring us. In addition, my kids are very intuitive and find little ways to redirect as well when I’ve run low in my bag of subject changeable tricks.
All in all, we are in this together I keep reminding her. Sissy, Mom and me ~ the three musketeers ~ all for one and one for all! That’s what life is all about ~ love, laughter and connecting with each other!
Shine On!
xo
Misifusa's Blog 
God bless you. It is so important to recognize when the disease talks. I learned that hard lesson with my mom. Best wishes with your journey. Thanks for sharing what you’re going through. We’ll be praying for you all here.
Thanks for the prayers Wendy. I always appreciate them and I believe they are powerful. Big hugs to you xo
Thank you for sharing your experience. I wish you the best as you go through these difficult times.
Thank you Dan…I appreciate your presence here.
Thanks so much for sharing this. I am sure there are many people dealing with this, and your words will give them a needed boost.
Thank you. I share because I think there are others who are enduring similar situations and I think it helps to connect.
Thank you for sharing! You and your family are in my prayers.
Thank you so much. Prayers are always appreciated! Big hugs to you. ♥
There “is” strength in numbers, Yvonne.
Especially that strength that comes from Him, through whom all things are possible. Even if but to keep vigil.
-Alan
Amen Alan. I’m always grateful for your being here.
Wrapping you all in love Yvonne..xXx ❤
Thanks Jane. I can feel the love and send back to you! xoxo
It very hard because, I have always dealt with my mother mental degradation and keep asking family question, question about who she was before it all gone, before generations of information, love and fear all go in puff of smoke
It is hard to piece together family pasts. Sometimes you may find that it’s easier to let go and to just enjoy what there is now.
To let go, I guess that one need to start doing all over again