When it comes to technology I am something of a Luddite. I have an iPhone, but Siri argues with me. I’m not adept at Facebook. I don’t tweet. Tech support is a friend I spend way too much time with. So, it comes as no small surprise to find that I am fascinated by Virtual… Continue reading A Portal to Experiences
These are the words of Ione Marchand, mother of my good friend Michele. Ione lives with Alzheimer’s and, as it happens, is also something of a poet philosopher. I can’t get her words out of my mind. I’ve shared them with several people and their reactions have been puzzled—from skeptical, Doesn’t enjoying your life mean… Continue reading “You don’t have to be happy to enjoy your life.”
I am so pleased to call your attention to an exciting new art exhibit at the Japanese Garden. For the past two years, participants of Dementia-Friendly Recreation have been coming to the garden regularly, turning their inspiration into vibrant watercolor paintings. "A Year in the Garden" is a culmination of the work they've created, and… Continue reading A Year in the Japanese Garden
For a woman who claimed not to believe in heaven, Mom certainly talked about it a lot. Here are two examples: From February, 2014. Mom is soon to turn 95. When playing Scrabble this week, we had our usual conversation about her soul. She—offering me her soul in exchange for some decent tiles. Me—refusing… Continue reading Battles at the Gate
Seattle is blessed to live in a region with Momentia—a grassroots movement empowering persons with memory loss and their loved ones to remain connected and active in the community. We have so many programs available to us: Alzheimer’s Cafes, art classes, drum circles, gardening programs, circle dancing, zoo walks, song circles, poetry workshops, improv… Continue reading Momentia in Yakima
