Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.—1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NIV) 

In the forty-plus years I’ve taken care of family members with dementia, I’ve received encouragement and helpful ideas from many people. When my church started a dementia caregiver support group, I hoped I would have something to contribute to the discussion. 

At the first meeting, a woman asked, “What do I do when I take my mother to her doctor’s appointments? He asks her questions and believes her answers. I don’t want to embarrass her by telling him the truth in front of her.”  

One person suggested she write a letter to the doctor and hand it to the receptionist when they check in. I have tried doing that or even emailing the doctor before the appointment. Usually, they never received my note.  

So I told the group, “I make index cards that I keep in my wallet. My cards say, ‘My mother (name) has dementia. It might not be apparent in a short visit, and she can be convincing when she answers your questions. Please check her answers with me later.’ I hand one to the nurse or doctor just before they interview Mom.”  

The lady’s eyes lit up. She said, “My husband is a graphic artist!” Several other members asked her to make cards for them too.