A Deeper Love for Mother in Her Alzheimer’s World
February 7, 2007 by Mary Emma Allen
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
As Valentine’s Day approaches, I recall those celebrations of the past, when Mother was alive…before and during her Alzheimer’s years. As I reflect, I realize that my love for Mother continued, even though she was much changed from the woman I once knew. She taught us a great deal about love throughout her life, which was heightened in those latter years.
As I cared for Mother during this devastating disease, I learned to appreciate the woman she was at that time. Even though she might not know me, might not remember our life in the past, she still responded in a limited way.
*At the sound of a friendly voice, she smiled and often tried to talk.
*With a kiss or a hug, she beamed.
*When we wheeled her outdoors to see the flowers of spring, Mother seemed to appreciate the attention.
*During an Easter egg hunt at the nursing home, Mother laughed as she watched the antics of the children gathering their goodies.
*She seemed to enjoy the visits of her great grandchildren and remarked, “Such good children,” even though she probably didn’t know who they were.
Through this, we realized she still was a person, even though she was much different from the mother I’d known.
As I cared for Mother during her Alzheimer’s journey, I learned a greater love that comes from serving.
Memories are made of times like these and love gathers
in our thoughts 
and hearts.
Mary Emma, that was beautiful!
I am caring for my mother it,s the hardest thing I,ve ever had to do, just watching her waste away,she was a very strong woman and I am her only child. Now it seems as if I,m the parent and I feel that she resent,s me.