• If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality.   If i think my spouse is still alive or if I think we're visiting my parents for dinner, let me believe those things.  I'll be much happier for it.

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• If I get dementia, I don't want to be treated like a child.   Talk to me like the adult I am.

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• If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the things that I've always enjoyed.   Help me find a way to exercise, read and visit with friends.

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• If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past.

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• If I get dementia and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me.

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• If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated.

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• if I get dementia, male sure there are plenty of snacks for me in the house.   If I have dementia I may have trouble explaining that I'm hungry.

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• If I get dementia, don't talk about me as if I'm not in the room.

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• If I get dementia, don't feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, seven days a week, It's not your fault, and you've done your best.   Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live.

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• If I get dementia and I live in a dementia care community, please come and visit me often.

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• ​If I get dementia, don't act frustrated if I mix up names, events or places.   Take a deep breath.   Its not my fault.​

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• If I get dementia, make sure I always have my favourite music playing within earshot.

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• If I get dementia and I pick up items and carry them around, help me return those items to their original places.

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• If I get dementia, don't exclude me from parties and family gatherings.

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• If I get dementia, know that i still like receiving hugs or handshakes.

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• If I get dementia, remember that I am still the person you know and love.

By Rachael Wonderlin