Issue 37.11
Caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s is difficult both for the patient and the caregiver. When we think of someone with Alzheimer’s, we imagine someone has very little awareness of what is going on around them. To a certain extent this may be true. However, people who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia can still communicate with family and friends in meaningful ways. Of course, this takes patience, love and understanding on our part. The wonderful personality of these dear ones sometimes can still shine through the confusion that may permeate their minds.
A number of Alzheimer patients I have had the honor of serving have all taught me lessons in etiquette, graciousness and love. The first patient I ever attended was very gracious and kind and grateful for what little time I spent with her. Another patient had such a sweet personality that the whole hospice team remarked about how they enjoyed visiting her. Whenever we visited her she would act surprised and delighted that we had stopped in to see her. Often she would exclaim: “How did you know I wanted to see you! Oh, it’s so nice of you to stop by. I’m so happy you came today!” She had a very loving and joyful personality that radiated her sweet spirit to you. Everyone on our team felt uplifted and inspired by her graciousness. When you left her home, you felt happy and ready to face the day.
The thing that impressed me most profoundly about this dear person was that she made you feel special. Her enthusiastic greeting for you never wavered. And she expressed great gratitude for your taking the time to visit her. Her humility and graciousness made one feel like royalty. According to her children this was not act. This was the way she was with everyone even before her illness limited her total awareness of the moment.
She always radiated joy, love and happiness to you. You felt you were in the presence of a blithe spirit that lifted you out of the doldrums of life into the joy of living. When you were in her presence, it seemed like you were in an atmosphere of deep love.
This dear lady will be missed by all of us who had the honor of serving her before she passed on. Her joyful spirit and profound love for people lives on in all of us who had the privilege of knowing her.
Luigi Persichetti is the chaplain for Southern Utah Home Care and Hospice and the minister of the Unity Center of Positive Living in St. George.