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DEMENTIA: Seeing is believing

| May 27, 2018 1:00 AM

Thank you to the Dementia Coach and The Lodge for putting on a great Virtual Dementia Tour. I never really realized what a dementia/Alzheimer’s individual lives with daily. As a caregiver, you do your best with all situations, some good days, some bad days. My husband has Alzheimer’s and I sit back and watch him struggle with numerous things and it really breaks my heart, watching a proud Marine struggle with some of the easiest tasks, having difficulties remembering names, dates, events, etc.

Then I attended the Virtual Dementia Tour Friday. What an eye opener, as to how the brain operates with dementia/Alzheimer’s. You put on some simple head gear, move to a room, then it starts. For about 15 minutes you live the life of a dementia/Alzheimer’s patient.

I now have a better understanding of what he goes through 24/7. My life is now changed forever. I have a much better understanding, which will make my life and his easier. I will be able to adjust to some of the things he does and not get upset, angry, hurt. I now know that this is the way it will be until the end.

I would suggest that anyone who has a dementia/Alzheimer’s family member, take a tour to find out what your loved one lives with 24/7. Thank you again Dementia Coach and The Lodge for helping me to understand.

PAULETTE GAFFNEY

Coeur d’Alene