Remaining connected to life!

One of the things that my wife I have learned about LBD is that I must remain connected to life.  My natural tendency since the disease has progressed is to stay in my home, which is my cocoon, sleep, watch television, and have as little contact with people as I can.  My wife knows this is not good for me.  It can lead to faster deterioration of my mental capabilities and physical abilities.  So, she keep me going!

Not everyday, as we did when we first retired, but a couple of times a week, we go somewhere, see something, talk to new people, and experience something new.  We like Zoos so we are going to the Alabama Zoo this weekend.  There is a local car club's car show next week.  We will go to a cemetery to take photos of more graves for Find A Grave, my wife's hobby next Tuesday.  See the pattern here?

Another exercise she has involved me in is leading a weekly Bible study at a local Assisted Living Facility.  I truly love being with those folks.  We are pretty much on the same mental level and the group truly enjoys the time together.  This is the most enriching time for me.

The other endeavor she has involved me in is Blogging.  This Blog, my Navy Blog, and a Christian Blog keep me connected to my memories.  I also belong to some Navy groups on Facebook.  This is a way I can keep in touch with old shipmates and relate past experiences to members of those groups.

Staying mentally active is the best way to combat the mental decline that Dementia causes.  Yes, I have issues with memory failures, short term memory, hallucinations, even reading and speech, but we choose to concentrate on what I can do instead of what I can't.  The same with physical activity.  I am weaker than I have ever been, can't stand long, sweat profusely at the slightest exertion, and get exhausted quickly.  So, I take my rotolator when we go for long walks and use my cane for the shorter trips.  I don't drive every time we go or I drive there and she drives home.  Yes, I still drive, but I know a time will come when I can't.  But again, concentrating on what we can do is the answer.

If you have LBD or are a caregiver of someone who does, get them moving, involved, and using the mental and physical capabilities they DO have.  Use it or loose it!