If Dementia Could Talk

When dementia is a part of the aging equation, things get complicated fast.

Today, we'd like to attempt to provide some communication that a loved one with dementia might be unable to express but you might need to hear to understand and help others going through the fog of dementia.

An Open Conversation with Dementia

Dear...oh dear, what did you say your name was?

Yes, this has been a good day. Good days are...good.

I'm thinking of moving back to Union City. Have you been there lately? You've NEVER been there? Oh.

Janice says I'm not really moving there. She says I'm staying here. That can't be right, though! Mama and Daddy are there. Everybody's there! Anyway, I'm thinking about it. Maybe soon I'll move back.

It's been a rough week. Everybody seems mad...me too. I'm not really angry though. I just hate when people get all loud. And I guess I get loud too.

It's just that my back hurts so bad. And on the not-good days I don't know the words for it. So I do things...they say I'm acting out. Ugh. I'm not a toddler. I just hurt. Not act out.

Well, maybe act out. Anyway.

What did you say your name was?

It's nice of you to listen to me.

It's hard for people to listen to me. Probably because it's hard for me to listen. I try, but I don't get your words. Maybe if you slow down. But not too slow. I'm not a toddler.

Well, I think it's time for me to go home. I am home? Impossible! I need to go home NOW. I need to feel safe. I...don't know what I need but I need to feel safe! And I need to use the restroom. And I just need to go home! Yes, if I felt safe maybe that would be the same thing...I don't know...well yes, that IS my blanket...

No, don't take that rose away from me. I need to pull the petals off. I don't know why. Don't fuss at me...my fingers want to. Please let me.

When I have to get ready to go somewhere and you tell me to hurry, it makes me freeze up and I go slower. I'm sorry. My brain just freezes. Maybe if you let me be...slow?

I'm getting tired--where is my mail? It was RIGHT HERE. I know it was. Did you take it? My check is in there. I need it! You haven't seen it? Of course you have, you--GIVE ME MY MAIL, THIEF!

Wait, what did you say your name was?

Oh yes, I know you. What I meant to say was...not what I said.

I love you.