Dementia: FB post

I played golf at Sac City, but first I was up and around and got stuff done so I went to play PB in IG from 8-8:45, then golf. I played with Sheila and Linda from Holsteirn and Judy? from Twin Lakes? We shot a 40 and each got $4. All 10 asparagus sold. Alex came to work on the shower area. I visited with Keith the airbnb before PB. We mowed and I left for BC softball. They wonn 9-10. STella pitched the first 4 innings. Denny was asleep when I got home.

If I get dementia, I’d like my family to hang this wish list up on the wall where I live. I want them to remember these things. And I would add one more: Every time you enter the room announce yourself. “Hi Monica - it’s (name).” NEVER ask- Do you know who I am??? That causes anxiety. 1. If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality. 2. If I think my spouse is still alive, or if I think we’re visiting my parents for dinner, let me believe those things. I’ll be much happier for it. 3. If I get dementia, don’t argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you. 4. If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me. 5. If I get dementia, and can no longer use utensils, do not start feeding me. Instead, switch me to a finger-food diet, and see if I can still feed myself. 6. If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious, hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me that my feelings are unfounded. 7. If I get dementia, I don’t want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am. 8. If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the things that I’ve always enjoyed. Help me find a way to exercise, read, and visit with friends. 9. If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past. 10. If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me. 11. If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated. 12. If I get dementia, make sure that there are plenty of snacks for me in the house. Even now if I don’t eat I get angry, and if I have dementia, I may have trouble explaining what I need. 13. If I get dementia, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room. 14. If I get dementia, don’t feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s not your fault, and you’ve done your best. Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live. 15. If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me often. 16. If I get dementia, don’t act frustrated if I mix up names, events, or places. Take a deep breath. It’s not my fault. 17. If I get dementia, make sure I always have my favorite music playing within earshot. 18. If I get dementia, and I like to pick up items and carry them around, help me return those items to their original place. 19. If I get dementia, don’t exclude me from parties and family gatherings. 20. If I get dementia, know that I still like receiving hugs or handshakes. 21. If I get dementia, remember that I am still the person you know and love.”