Offering up thanks - again - to Jolene Brackey for her wonderful book, Creating Moments of Joy (for the person with Alzheimer's or dementia). I had to buy a new copy - again - because of handing it off to friends who'd benefit from its wisdom & light heart.
The best way to share my delight in this small, invaluable gem is by reposting her spot-on directions, How to Use This Journal:
I have a vision. A vision that we will soon look beyond the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and focus more of our energy on creating moments of joy. When a person has short-term memory loss, his life is made up of moments. We are not able to create a perfectly wonderful day for those with dementia, but it is absolutely attainable to create perfectly wonderful moments - moments that put smiles on their faces, a twinkle in their eyes, or trigger memories. Five minutes later, they won't remember what you did or said, but the feeling you left them with will linger.
Yes yes & YES! The memories don't linger, but the feelings do!
John & I have a beloved grannie client who doesn't remember our names, but when we hove into view on a Monday morning or Wednesday night, a Thursday afternoon or Saturday evening, she KNOWS that she will feel wonderful being around us. The same sure knowledge she has when her daughter or sons pop in, when her other very special care partner comes by. She doesn't remember the names, but she certainly immediately connects with the joy that springs at the sight of any one of us.
For the next week or so, am going to post some of my very favorite moments of joy from Jolene's must-have book. Quick, before I give away this copy!
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