Memoir Excerpts

When you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, locked bathroom doors can be confusing. We found an inexpensive and effective solution!

Back in 2015, I wondered what, if anything, we could do with Otosan’s diet to help slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s. I wish I knew then about some of the great resources available today.

Taking care of Otosan was supposed to be a team effort, and instead, I felt taken for granted. Fortunately, my resentment didn’t last long, and I found a win-win solution.

Before we moved them to Tokyo, my in-laws had a dog. Fuku-chan was the sweetest, gentlest Shiba dog. But our condo didn’t allow us to keep pets.

The social worker at Okasan’s hospital was ready for me when I asked for help. One week later, Otosan was getting tested for Alzheimer’s.

Otosan had gone to use the restroom while at the hospital. When he didn’t return to Okasan’s room right away, we started looking for him. The hospital was put on alert, but none of the staff could find him either. Oh, dear!