Friday 17 February 2012

NB - BLOG INFORMATION

I have apparently posted 4 blogs in 2012 on this blog page. The remaining blogs and all 2011 blogs are on the other blog site, also entitled "A Good Life With Dementia". I will in future, endeavour to ensure that all postings are put on the other site. As if life wasnt complicated enough!!
JSAFGA

Friday 10 February 2012

PERSEVERANCE

Perseverance isnt always easy, no matter what stage of life one is at. Debilitating, exhausting, frustrating, may rank, in varying degrees, among just a few of it's negative side effects. However, the satisfaction, joy and feeling of well being, resulting from a satisfactory outcome, as a result of persevering and not giving up, far outweighs the negative aspects sometimes associated with the journey to an ultimate goal.

In the dementing state, perserverance is a strange bed fellow. I find it an essential companion, if only, to help one make the most of the journey. This, obviously, is not always easy, whether due to basic seasonal factors, other obstacles that life presents, or personal issues. To be reminded of one's limitations, either as a result  of what one has said, done, or omitted to remember to do, is of itself limiting. An eventual awareness / acknowledgement of omissions, outbursts or other issues, can be painfull from a number of selfish perspectives. However, to be determined to persevere and move on, is, I find, a vital ingredient to enhancing the journey.

No good hoping that it will all go away and things will be the way they were - focusing on this type of dreaming will only lead to increased frustration. If one can, although I appreciate not every reader will be psychologically able, it can be better to leave that place of negativity and loss, as soon as possible and gradually re-focus on seeking out the potential opportunities to enhance one's life and that of one's loving carer. This change of attitude can be uplifting for all concerned and with perserverance can re-establish the ongoing opportunity for a Good Life With Dementia.

I am currently considering the possibility of attending a recently commenced, weekly, half day "Dementia Cafe" in a nearby town. However, I have many questions and issues to sort out in my head and information to obtain, regarding the same, before making an approach. These include the qualifications and experience of the individuals who organise and run the centre, the manner in which the sessions are organised and the varying stage of disease progression, or how far down "Dementia Lane" the other attendees have progressed. WATCH THIS SPACE!

JSAFGA.