In the last 24 hours, I’ve been faced with a harsh reality check on Maureen’s short-term memory. Yesterday, a few hours after I told Maureen that her mum was dead she was talking about sending a letter and going to see her. Early this morning she was reluctant to get into bed with me because she didn’t know who I was. I think she has already forgotten her focus a little later on about needing to be able to access her money so she could buy a toothbrush. Her reluctance to engage in personal care or change her clothing continues despite daily prompting from all quarters.
Most people would argue that Maureen is treading a familiar path: the inevitable decline in cognitive function as her dementia progresses. A minority suggest that it is possible to address cognitive decline or even reverse it. Over the next few days, I want to review my interventions as Maureen’s Care Partner and consider if a change of approach might lead to some productive outcomes.
Dementia: Sharing The Good Times 
Paul, I’m at a bit of a loss regarding, first of all, why you would tell Maureen her Mom is dead, and second, why you would expect her to remember the fact a few hours later? #confused
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I’m not surprised you are confused. Maureen was asking me to tell her the truth about her mum so I did and she seemed pleased with my honesty so nothing lost there. I realise expecting her to remember was rather naive. I’m just winging it as always and trying to stay optimistic!
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Gothchya.
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