My mom has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dementia.
It’s not as a surprise—we’ve seen it coming. Over the past five years or so, we’ve noticed increasing cognitive issues—searching for words, forgetting details, unable to remember things that just happened, or we’ve just talked about.
But to hear the neurologist describe her as ‘demented’ hits hard. Especially since she’s only 69 years old.
Anyone who has had to go through managing an aging parent knows how hard it is. Finding a safe place for them, managing their affairs from a distance; it’s a logistical nightmare, in addition to the emotional one.
We’re working through it, and will get her in the best place possible.
But selfishly, it’s also terrifying for me. I have these genetics. Her story is my story. The rest of my life is now dedicated to keeping this at bay.
I was fortunate to speak to a brilliant NYU epidemiologist recently, who assured me that advances in Alzheimer’s understanding has been impressive, and there will be treatment forthcoming.
While it’s sadly too late for my mom, it’s not too late for you and me.
He said that in the short term, there’s almost nothing better we can do than adhere to the ‘8 Dimensions of Wellness.’
1. Physical health—staying active and keeping the blood flowing.
2. Emotional health—keeping a support network, manage hypertension and stress.
3. Intellectual health—remaining ever curious and creative. Never stop learning.
4. Social health—cultivate close relationships, stay communicative, keep loved ones close.
5. Spiritual health—find your sense of purpose. Never give up.
6. Occupational health—find satisfaction in your work, set goals and smash them continually.
7. Environmental health—keep a clean house, clean air, a clean world.
8. Financial health—keep your fiscal house in order, invest wisely to eliminate stress and stay in control of your life.
My mom sadly ignored most of these needs throughout the later portions of her life, no matter how much I encouraged her to stay social, keep reading, eat well, pay her bills, and get regular exercise.
While none of this would likely have stopped the dementia from creeping in, it certainly wouldn’t have hurt.
I’m sad. I’m losing my mommy. I’m worried how she is now is how I’ll remember her. I refuse to let that happen. She deserves better. She lived a wonderful life, and I’m going to make sure she finds peace and joy in every moment from here on out.
And I’m going to stay healthy in order to ensure she always has what she needs, until the day I need help, too. I love you, mom.
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