Memories

How would you feel if all the times you said ‘remember when’ didn’t make any sense at all?

If we forgot all the warm summer nights, the inside jokes, the carefree laughter, and even the faces of the people we love, what would life be?

People living with dementia have to deal with this every day. You may think that there are far worse effects those having dementia have to face, but try to imagine how you would start a simple conversation with someone if you couldn’t even remember their face. Our memories stand for who we were yesterday, who we are today and who we will be tomorrow. They make us who we are because they are all we know. We unconsciously use them in almost every situation. How else would you know what you have to buy at a store or how you find your way back home? Memories are You.

As I started to work with The Dementia Café, I began to ask myself: What is my absolute favourite memory and why do I cherish it the way I do?

Soon I realised that our memories are not just part of our past but of immense value to our souls. What do you like to think of when you are feeling down during a moment of isolation? I’m sure the thoughts of a loved one help you to get through rough times once in a while. Try to answer the question I just asked and then imagine how you’d feel if you couldn’t remember enough to even give me a reply.

This is why The Dementia Café is of immeasurable importance. It will create a safe space, for those living with dementia and their relatives, to create new memories, enjoy loving moments and to let everyone know that they are not alone during this hard time.