A Poem About Dementia

To lose our memory; our executive function and our ability to one day dress ourselves is a frightening prospect. It is a grief-filled process for both the person with dementia and their loved ones who experience loss in their journey of caregiving. This lovely poem came to my attention:

Maybe - Author Unknown

When I wanderdon’t tell me to come and sit down.Wander with me.It may be because I am hungry, thirsty, need the toilet.Or maybe I just need to stretch my legs.When I call for my mother(even though I’m ninety!)don’t tell me she has died.Reassure me, cuddle me, ask me about her.It may be that I am looking for the securitythat my mother once gave me.When I shout outplease don’t ask me to be quiet…or walk by.I am trying to tell you something,but have difficulty in telling you what.Be patient. Try to find out.I may be in pain.When I become agitated or appear angry,please don’t reach for the drugs first.I am trying to tell you something.It may be too hot, too bright, too noisy.Or maybe it’s because I miss my loved ones.Try to find out first.When I don’t eat my dinner or drink my teait may be because I’ve forgotten how to.Show me what to do, remind me.It may be that I just need to hold my knife and forkI may know what to do then.When I push you awaywhile you’re trying to help me wash or get dressed,maybe it’s because I have forgotten what you have said.Keep telling me what you are doingover and over and over.Maybe others will thinkyou’re the one that needs the help!With all my thoughts and maybes,perhaps it will be youwho reaches my thoughts,understands my fears,and will make me feel safe.Maybe it will be youwho I need to thank.If only I knew how.-Author unknown

Photo by Christian Bowen on Unsplash