I volunteer with Alzheimer's Australia, and today I helped the organisers with a River cruise ending with a barbeque in South Townsville for the pople who the Organisation supports (people with Dementia/Alzheimer's Disease and their carers.)
Most of the people who were their were from the Younger Onset of Dementia group. It was good to see them enjoying the fresh air, the boat ride, the views, the stories, and to join in with some of their knowledge and experiences.
How much they need support to be able to live life a little as they used to - to go fishing, to enjoy the open air, and nature. They have been cruelly robbed of so much so early in life. It is touching to see their courage to face life, but sad to see how lost they seem to be sometimes. They are like people without hope, without joy, without purpose.
Oh to know better how to create a better life for them, and for the older dementia sufferes as well.
We should consider ourselves so blessed, when we have our memories. Make the most of our mental capacities - use them, cherish them, nurture them, and increase them!
I valued this quote today:
"many things in life try to blind us to lifes greatest riches but it's kindness, tenderness, forgiveness, love and understanding that hold the most value".
Indeed, the ability to remember something is taken for granted. Its great to hear they enjoyed the river cruise. The world needs more people like yourself, as volunteering for such a noble cause is very selfless. I wish you the best of luck with all future endeavours. Take it easy.
Thank you very much Lloydy - or rather, Oliver,
I read your posts about your music for those wtih Dementia. Tha tis a wonderful work you do, and I am sure your sessions are valued by residents and staff. All the best!