If I get dementia 1

 The following was posted on Facebook by a cousin of mine, and she got it from Joshua Pettit who is the original author of the post. I add a few wishes to his list at the end.

Here is his original wish list with online resources that may help caregivers fulfill each request. These resources provide advice, practical tools, and background knowledge on dementia care:

1.     If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality.
Resource: Alzheimer's Association provides guidance on understanding and validating dementia patients' realities: alz.org

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.
Resource: Dementia Australia discusses strategies for handling dementia-related confabulations: dementia.org.au

3.     If I get dementia, don’t argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you.
Resource: "Therapeutic Lying" and other techniques from NHS Foundation Trust on supporting dementia patients respectfully: nhs.uk

4.     If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me.
Resource: The Alzheimer’s Society explains how memory loss can affect recognition and tips for caregivers: alzheimers.org.uk

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.
Resource: Aged Care Guide offers resources on modifying diets for dementia patients: agedcareguide.com.au

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.
Resource: The Alzheimer’s Foundation provides resources on managing anxiety and validating emotions: alzfdn.org

7.     If I get dementia, I don’t want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am.
Resource: Alzheimer's Society's recommendations for respectful and age-appropriate communication: alzheimers.org.uk

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.
Resource: Dementia-friendly activity suggestions from the Mayo Clinic: mayoclinic.org

9.     If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past.
Resource: Alzheimer's Society on reminiscence therapy and Storytelling for dementia: alzheimers.org.uk

10. If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me.
Resource: National Institute on Aging offers a comprehensive guide to understanding dementia-related behaviors: nia.nih.gov

11. If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated.
Resource: The Eden Alternative discusses empathy and respectful care for dementia: edenalt.org

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.
Resource: Alzheimer’s Association’s guide to dietary needs and eating challenges in dementia: alz.org

13. If I get dementia, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room.
Resource: Dementia UK explains inclusive communication and involving people with dementia in discussions: dementiauk.org

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.
Resource: Alzheimer’s Association offers caregiver support and resources for locating dementia care communities: alz.org

15. If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me often.Resource: Family Caregiver Alliance discusses the importance of family visits in residential care: caregiver.org