Finding Humour in Dementia

Living with dementia (my husband, Dave, has frontotemporal dementia) can be challenging, but at the same time a great teacher. The other day Dave and I are sitting under a giant ponderosa pine tree, enjoying the sights and sounds of the birds around our pond. Since Dave’s dementia affects his language skills, he doesn’t talk very much and when he does, he likes to start a conversation with a question; then more questions. This time he is asking me about our springer spaniels… ... 

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My husband speaks about his life with his dementia

Three years ago the doctors put a label on my husband’s (Dave) changing personality, behavior and emotions. It explains why he doesn’t recognize his fellow teachers of 25 years; why he has trouble reading and speaking; why he is quieter and is withdrawing into his own world. It explains the seizures, hand tremors, loss of sense of humor (almost), and changing senses–hearing, taste, smell, touch.  Dave at age 57 was officially diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia. His attitude... 

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Walking in my shoes–living with a spouse with frontotemporal dementia

Every time  my sister or children come to visit, I learn a little bit more about how I am managing my new life—a life with my husband, Dave who has Frontotemporal dementia. I am more aware of how I speak to him–including my tone and patience. I am also more aware of how I ‘respond’ or ‘react’ to comments from people who step into our lives for a few hours or a few days; people who have good intentions, but aren’t walking in my shoes. A good example was the other night… Dave was... 

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