Summary

The article "Live and Laugh with Dementia: What’s the time?" captures a poignant moment in a gathering of elderly individuals with dementia, emphasizing the joy and clarity they experience through music and social interaction, despite their condition.

Abstract

In a heartwarming narrative, the author describes a scene where elderly individuals with dementia engage with music and each other, finding moments of lucidity and happiness. Some sit quietly, others move about, but all are united by a piano's music. A man's request for a hymn brings a moment of collective clarity, with voices rising strong and clear. The author is touched by the singing and a humorous exchange about the time, highlighting the resilience and vibrancy of life even with dementia. The article concludes with an invitation to explore more stories about living with dementia and a call to support the writer's work.

Opinions

The author conveys a sense of wonder and appreciation for the moments of joy and clarity experienced by individuals with dementia.
Music is portrayed as a powerful tool that bridges gaps left by memory loss, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
The author subtly emphasizes the importance of human connection and the capacity for meaningful interaction, regardless of cognitive impairments.
There is an underlying message of the healing power of laughter and shared experiences in the face of adversity.
The author's tone suggests a deep respect and empathy for those living with dementia, celebrating their ability to live in the moment and find happiness.
The article suggests that dementia does not define a person's ability to contribute to and enjoy communal experiences.

Live and Laugh with Dementia: What’s the time?

In the words of Forrest Gump Life is Like a Box of Chocolates You Don’t Know What You’re Gonna Get. So make the most of it and enjoy.

Some sat quietly in a chair

Others wandered in and out of the large room

A woman played the piano

The same tune over and over

Until a man asked for the hymn

When the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there

Though they were old and frail

Their voices had clarity and strength

I leaned back in my chair

Smiling

Soaking in the singing

She stopped in front of me and asked

Do you have the time?

I glanced to my wrist

No watch

The woman seated beside me caught my eye

She lifted up her hand

Looked at her fingers

Touched her ring

And said

The time is 2 o’clock

Did you say 2 o’clock?

Looking at her ring again

She says 3 o’clock

Oh I must go, came the reply

I have to collect my sister from school

As she hurried away

I leaned back in my chair

Smiling

Thank you for reading my piece.

If you enjoyed Live and Laugh with Dementia: What’s the time? check out the links below for more Living with Dementia moments.

Live and Laugh with Dementia: Health and Wellbeing Living with Dementia Live and Laugh with Dementia: Junior and Eddie / Family photo Live and Laugh with Dementia: Do you see what I see? Live and Laugh with Dementia: Over a Cuppa

Have a fabulous week.

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