Now & Then, 7/09/2026
Did you know over 7 million Americans 65 years and older are living with Alzheimer’s Disease (the most common form of dementia)? Worldwide, over 57 million people are living with dementia. By 2030, the number is projected to reach over 82 million.
Dementia is a term for decline in mental ability, such as memory loss, language impairment and poor judgment, severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is common in older adults, but it is not a normal part of aging.
About 60-80% of dementia cases are Alzheimer’s Disease. Other types include Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia and Frontotemporal Dementia.
Symptoms vary but generally include: difficulty completing everyday tasks, forgetting recent events, names or appointments, getting lost in familiar neighborhoods or confusing days and dates and experiencing shifts in mood, personality, or emotional control.
Dementia occurs when nerve cells in the brain stop working or die, usually due to accumulating proteins or compromised blood flow. Similar symptoms can also come from thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, or side effects from medications.
I didn’t know much about dementia until I learned a family member was recently diagnosed with the disease. Thankfully, she is in the early stages of the disease. When I visited with her, I did not recognize any of the symptoms. I was happy when I read some suggestions on social media advising ways to communicate with those with the disease. Someone wrote: If I ever get dementia, I’d like my family to hang this wish list up on the wall where I live.
1. Every time you enter the room announce yourself. “Hi-it’s …..”NEVER ask, Do you know who I am?? That causes anxiety.
2. If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality.
3. If I think my deceased friend 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.
4. If I get dementia, don’t argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you.
5. If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me.
6. If I get dementia and can no longer use utensils, do not start feeding me. Instead give me finger-foods and see if I can still feed myself.
7. If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious, hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me that my feelings are unfounded.
8. If I get dementia, I don’t want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am.
9. 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.
10. If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past.
11. If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me.
12. If I get dementia, treat me the way you would want to be treated.
13. If I get dementia, make sure there are plenty of snacks for me in the house. I may have trouble explaining what I need.
14. If I get dementia, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room.
15. If I get dementia, don’t feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live.
16. If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me often.
17. If I get dementia, don’t exclude me from parties and family gatherings.
18. If I get dementia, know that I still like receiving hugs and plenty of laughter.
19.If I get dementia, remember I am still the person you know and love.
20. If I get dementia, remember I didn’t ask to be inflicted with this disease. I am still me, even if I cannot behave the way I did.
Thank you for reading this and helping raise the awareness of this cruel disease. I have written this article in honor of all those who are currently afflicted, and in honor of all those who have cared for and lost someone to this disease. God bless.