It is almost a year since I started working in an Alzheimer's unit. We know the fact that this disease causes forgetfulness to a point where the person no longer remembers his/her own memories, loved ones and even how to do simple things like eating, dressing oneself and toileting. I've seen different faces of it. It steals a person's right to live a normal and quality life. Conversations are replaced with blank stares and repetitive words or phrases. Coherent thoughts wander off to somewhere else. It causes a person to lose touch with reality and be lost in his/her own world.
The daily experience of interacting with people who have Alzheimer's disease changes you. It somehow changed me. It brought me a lot of realizations in life. It widened my understanding and patience. It allows me to be grateful to the things I can still do for myself. I hold on to my memories may it be good or bad. I value more my freedom and independence now more than ever. I cherish every moment I spend with family and friends.
Sad to say but this can happen to me or to anyone that I know. Thinking about this, I want to tell the world that behind the distorted reality there is still a person who would want to feel loved and cared for.
Please spare a little time to know me as a person so you can help me better when I can no longer do anything for myself:
1. My name is Charo but you can call me "Cha". Please don't use any other names or labels that you want.
2. I like colourful clothes. I love red, blue and yellow but pink is my favourite colour. Allow me to choose the clothes I want to wear if I am still able to do so. I prefer dresses over pants but not if it's too cold. You can put layers of clothing because at most times I feel cold and I may not be able to say it.
3. Most of my life, I have long hair and I would like it that way. You can cut it if you want but please make sure that it's not too short. I always like it braided and use some of my colourful hair accessories. I love wearing headbands and I would be delighted if you can match it with my outfit.
4. I wear glasses so kindly put it on me or allow me to wear it myself. I might not be able to see your face if I don't wear one.
5. I am not good in direction and I know that well so you might want to always redirect me to my room or my environment. Sorry if I am taking most of your time but this is who I am and I can't help it so please help me find my way.
6. Toilet me more often, I might forget to pee. Find time for me so I can have a bowel movement and
kindly clean me good enough so I won't be scratching down there.
7. I love arts. I love doing scrapbooks and artworks. I know that I will not be able to do some anymore but please sit down with me and together we can browse some of my creations. Allow me to participate in activities like colouring and painting.
8. Decorate my room. I would really appreciate it if you place my most lovely picture at the door or the night stand. Display my paintings at the wall, I might stop to look at it. Place picture of me and my family all over my room.
9. I collect stuff toys. Kindly place some of my favourite ones on my bed so I can hug them at night.
10. I sleep better when lights are close. You don't need to worry because I am not afraid of the dark.
11. Sing for me when words are not enough.
Please love and care for me even if I’m losing touch with reality. -CHA-
