Steve, you are a valued friend. Your sharing is inspiring.
As we get older the number of people in our lives affected by some form of dementia inevitably increases, and may include ourselves.
Keeping dementia and its challenges secret and shameful only serves to make it worse for those struggling with the condition, and those who love someone(s) with the condition.
I have watched several people I care about struggle with dementia. One thing that I have observed more than once is that those who accept their diagnosis and attempt to learn how to live joyfully (and openly) with it in spite of all the changes tend to have an easier time with the challenge in so many ways.
It takes great courage, and great faith, to live so. But it is infinitely more full of grace and unexpected reward than putting all your energy into denial and paranoia and covering up.
Thank you.
appreciatively,
Bright