Joy, moments of play, possibilities, connections. These are all words I’m inclined to use when speaking with people about my work in dementia coaching – yet I typically hesitate, with a caution of appearing Pollyanna or overly simplistic. However, once I get to really speaking with people about my enjoyment of the work I do, and why I love working with this population, people see my genuine optimism, my creativity, my hope for better quality of life and more enjoyable moments for individuals with dementia and their loved ones.
And then, this article comes out in the Washington Post ~ and I wish I had written it myself!
The article, entitled “Changing ‘the tragedy narrative’: Why a growing camp is promoting a more joyful approach to Alzheimer’s,” describes how people are flipping the script on dementia. By harnessing silliness, playfulness, and flexibility, families are finding positive new ways to navigate their new realities. As one family is described in the article: “Ollie is their nickname for Alzheimer’s, the disease Tom was diagnosed with seven years ago. For the Misciagnas, Ollie is a third presence in the house, one they never invited in. But since he’s here, they’re making room for him. And though it might seem counterintuitive, they are even trying to have fun with him.”
I am thrilled for this conversation to be entering the mainstream. And, to all of you who forwarded it to me ~ thank you for seeing me and my passion so clearly.
You can read the full article at the Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/social-issues/changing-the-tragedy-narrative-why-a-growing-camp-is-promoting-a-joyful-approach-to-alzheimers/2019/02/21/2c4ed4f0-2244-11e9-81fd-b7b05d5bed90_story.html
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