DEMENTIA AND AFFAIRS

When your poor memory and slipping cognitive abilities have been diagnosed as dementia, the first reaction is 'shock horror' and then desperation and depression as the mist of dementia is suddenly revealed for what it really is.
However, to survive emotionally one has to recognize the enemy and then fight to slow him down. This can be done quite sucessfully with good diet, mental and physical exercise and coconut oil. The following years can be lived almost fully and after ten years of dementia I am still able to write in the mornings, read in the afternoons and play chess and enjoy music.
However, it is wise to prepare for the future in case one's condition deteriorates. If you are a single person try and settle on one partner and more seriously put your financial affairs in order.
One needs to start thinking ahead and for example decide, if your condition does deteriorate who you can trust with your bank accounts, management of investments and of course passwords and so on. If you do not have anyone who you have sufficient confidence in, you should consult a solicitor who you may decide to give the power of attorney.
One should also investigate care home facilities and the costs in case that is where you have to go to ultimately. Perhaps you will be able to delay the progression of your dementia sufficiently to live your life fully and normally until the natural end, but just in case you are 'non compis mentis' at some point in the future you should leave clear instructions as to your wishes.
One of the sadest things that I have experienced is the fading away of the memory of some people who were important in my life. This decided me to start a scrap book and sort my many photographs into different life sections. If I had films, videos or DVDs, which I sadly don't, I would also label these. Also, write down your favourite songs, books and films.
Above all remember, that despite dementia one can live life to the full and enjoy each and every day and with luck, planning and positive thinking go on for many years.