Dementia is the general term for deterioration in memory and thinking, behavioral processing and the ability to perform everyday tasks for yourself. A dementia diagnosis is one of the most difficult issues a family can face. The statistics are staggering:
- It’s estimated that one in three adults – 33% – will die with some form of dementia.
- More than six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
- More than one in nine people aged 65 and older has some form of Alzheimer’s dementia.
- More than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for relatives with dementia.
Sarah Smith, my guest on Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, was shocked when her fiercely independent mother – nicknamed Beauty – was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. Beauty was fun, had a lot of energy, enjoyed hosting parties and entertaining and loved to encourage people. But gradually, her personality began to change. She became edgy. Small things set her off and she easily got frustrated and anxious.
And so began Sarah’s journey of sacrificial love and discovering God’s goodness as she cared for her mom. Along the way, God worked through Sarah’s trials to bring healing to the broken places in heart. She learned to be slow to speak, quick to listen, and increasingly able to see her loved ones through His eyes.
Hear my full conversation with Sarah Smith on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, or on our free phone app. She shares from her heart and will help you experience the love of God while enduring the difficulties associated with caretaking.
If you need practical help related to the stress of caring for a loved one with dementia, we have a staff of counselors who would be happy to offer you a free consultation. Call us, leave your name and number, and they’ll get back with you as soon as possible. The number during business hours is 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
Sarah has written a touching memoir called Broken Beauty: Piecing Together Lives Shattered by Early Onset Alzheimer’s. It’s available for a gift of any amount. For more information, click here.
