Live and Laugh with Dementia

Summary

"Live and Laugh with Dementia" explores the cultural acceptance of spiritual presence and the special gift of seeing and communicating with spirits in Pacific Island cultures, particularly as it relates to individuals with dementia.

Abstract

The article "Live and Laugh with Dementia" delves into the cultural perspective of Pacific Islanders regarding the presence of spirits and the unique ability of certain individuals to interact with them, a trait considered a sacred gift. Through a conversation between an elderly Pacific woman and the author, it challenges the Western perception of dementia, suggesting that those with dementia may perceive more than what is visible to others. The narrative of Maardy and Eddie illustrates this concept, where Eddie, who has dementia, sees an invisible man sitting next to his daughter. Instead of dismissing his vision, Maardy acknowledges and engages with the possibility of the man's presence, highlighting the cultural openness to such experiences. The article encourages readers to embrace a worldview that recognizes the validity of these experiences and respects the insights of those living with dementia.

Opinions

The ability to see and communicate with spirits is respected and considered a special gift in Pacific Island cultures.
Western interpretations of seeing people who aren't physically present are questioned, suggesting a limitation in the observer's perception rather than a delusion.
The presence of spirits is accepted as a reality within the cultural context of Pacific Island societies, which fosters a community that embraces possibilities rather than dismissing them as signs of mental instability.
The article implies that individuals with dementia, like Eddie, may have a heightened awareness or perception that others lack, and this should be acknowledged and respected.
The author advocates for a shift in perspective, encouraging empathy and understanding towards people with dementia, recognizing their experiences as valid and meaningful.

Live and Laugh with Dementia

Do You See What I See?

I said to an elderly Pacific woman “My father sees people that are not there”. She replied, “How do you know they are not there? My mouth dropped in surprise and I said, slowly “No one is there!” Holding my gaze she said “Because you do not see what he sees does that mean there is no one there? Maybe he sees more. Maybe you are limited”.

Maardy, Eddie, and the Chair

Mobile in hand Maardy flicked through posts, stopping occasionally to read those of interest. Eddie watched her. She was familiar. His daughter? Yes…yes, she is his daughter! He relaxed into his lazy-boy. After a while she glanced at her father, his eyes were fixed on the empty chair beside her. He looked uneasy. She turned, looking at the chair, and wondered what held his attention. “Who’s that man?” he said. “What man?” she asked. With annoyance in his voice Eddie said “The man sitting beside you!” Maardy studied the empty chair beside her, and contemplated the situation. Looking back at Eddie she asked “What is he doing?” Eddie replied “Nothing, he’s just sitting there”. Maardy thought for a moment then said “If he is doing nothing, that’s ok. But can you tell me if he does do anything?” Eddie nodded his head as he said “Yes”. With his eyes still fixed on ‘the man’ Eddie placed his feet on the foot rest, and relaxed into his lazy-boy. Maardy glanced at that empty chair, and slid to the right.

In Pacific Island cultures the presence of spirits is accepted. To be able to see and communicate with spirits is seen as a special gift bestowed on a select few. Such people are respected or feared, or both. The presence of these gifted individuals created island societies that were open to possibilities, who saw ‘possibilities’ and not ‘crazy’.

Thank you for reading my piece.

If you enjoyed Live and Laugh with Dementia: Do you see what I see check out the links below for more Living with Dementia moments.

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