When You feel like crying, laugh instead...

Dementia is a frightening, confusing, unpredictable and, (shall I say this?), sometimes a funny disease.  I can't tell you how many times I've been surprised at something my Mom has said or done.  One thing you learn, when you are loving a person with dementia, is that you have to be "in the moment" with them.  There is no point in arguing or being upset.  My Mom deserves respect and understanding.  Mom's second husband, Ray, recently passed away, and about a year ago he told me something that I will always remember and love him for.  He said that he never discussed Mom's dementia with any of their friends because he wanted to preserve her dignity.  When my family laughs about somerthing Mom has said, we always say that we laugh to keep from crying.  Laughing helps us deal with this disease that is changing our lives "as we knew it".