Dad's Dementia Took a Break—For at Least a Day

My dad had a great day the other day. My boyfriend and I went over to give my mom her late Mother’s Day present and my dad greeted him with the same charisma and pep he was known for years ago.

“Hi, Giuliano. How’s it going?” My boyfriend said to him as he walked in the house.

“Great. Just watching the game. I’m going to get ready for work soon and then … oh, hi, missy,” he said to me, not remembering that he doesn’t have work anymore. But, that’s okay. He was so responsive and alert.

It was very good to hear. He continued to talk to mom and my aunt and brother about various things that day, as if nothing was different.

This is a great thing and it made me very happy to hear and see!

The only thing is that it is a bit confusing. That’s the thing about dementia, in the early stages, it seems to come and go. Lately, it comes more often than it goes. But, once in awhile you’ll get those lovely, clear days where it seems like my dad is back.

On the other hand, how do I get that clarity to stay longer than a day or just a few hours? How do we stretch it out?

Has anybody had a similar experience? What do you do to make the most of those rare, sunny days?

RESOURCES

It is often encouraged for both patients and family members/caregivers to join a support group. There are support groups offered nearby in Mountain View, San Jose, or even telephone support groups. For support in your area, check out http://www.alz.org/norcal/in_my_community_support.asp