I think we should amend the idiom based on Psalm 8 to read, “Out of the mouth of babes—and Alzheimer’s sufferers—comes wisdom.” With Mom perhaps it’s not exactly wisdom per se but rather observations straight from her altered reality. She uses her limited language and memory resources to convey a message. Her statements offer clues as to how I can reach her and hint at how she is feeling. Here are two examples from today’s visit. When we were eating lunch, Mom kept taking off

During my visit today, I interviewed Mom for my daughter’s final 12th grade art project. The multi-media piece will include drawings of Mom from different periods in her life that are partly out of focus, a fog machine that hinders sight, and the interview, looped to distraction. I asked a series of question over and over. What is your name? How old are you? How many children do you have? Where do you live? The discomfort Mom felt in answering these questions was evident. It

Mom and I walked in the rain today. It was a light rain, and as we ambled along, we sang rain songs. It felt good to be out, and when we were rewarded with sunshine, it made the walk worthwhile. Exercise is such an important aspect of health at any age. One study I came across suggests that increased activity levels can prevent Alzheimer’s in one in three individuals.* Regular physical activity ensures there is a steady flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain that in turn prev