Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s: A Spectrum of Experiences – with the goal to help create moments that are meaningful

September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. While the disease is often portrayed as a relentless and steady decline, the reality is far more complex.

I’ve witnessed firsthand the spectrum of Alzheimer’s. As a hospice palliative care nurse, I’ve seen the heartbreakingly fast progression of the disease: from the loss of higher functions like managing finances and connecting with friends, to the ultimate dependence on others for the most basic needs, and eventually, the inability to swallow.

However, a different reality emerged for me when I was speaking at an Alzheimer’s Association conference, and I encountered Gary, a man living with Alzheimer’s and whose ability to travel and ride bikes and enjoy tours of new lands, defied my expectations. His vibrant spirit and active lifestyle challenged my preconceived notions of the disease.

Gary and his wife, Judy, and their adventures show case a zest for life. Their story is a testament to their partnership, the importance of support networks, and their willingness to keep trying new things. They traveled, explored, and found joy, proving that Alzheimer’s doesn’t define a person’s entire experience. (Journeys included walking tours in Europe, and this winter, a safari in Tanzania.)

The truth is that Alzheimer’s is a disease with varied trajectories. Some individuals experience rapid decline, while others maintain a higher quality of life for extended periods.

It’s essential to acknowledge the challenges faced by caregivers supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s, regardless of disease progression. Their strength and dedication are inspiring.

As we raise awareness this September, let’s remember that Alzheimer’s is a complex disease with a spectrum of experiences. By sharing stories like Gary and Judy’s, we can foster hope, empathy, and support for all those affected. And by sharing stories of how Judy has supported Gary, I think that we also learn about making moments meaningful, continuing to LIVE fully until we die. And whether we support a person who is confined to a bed and a chair, or support a person while we tour the Yukon… Ultimately, the goal is to create moments that matter. Whether it’s a day trip to the zoo or a simple conversation, these moments enrich the lives of both the person with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.