A Carer’s Story by Erin Muller.

Until 3 years ago, my dear sister Doris, then 85, was leading a normal life. She had a sociable nature – liked to meet people, give and go to parties, do gardening and cooking. She had to curtail some of her activities due to her age, but rest for life remained. She used to play the piano and piano accordion and excelled at crochet items such as jug covers. These were much admired and sought after by family and friends.

As the year progressed, my niece Diana and I noticed certain changes in Doris’ behaviour. She experienced quick mood changes, became quarrelsome and forgetful, often misplacing her belongings and found it difficult to work at her crochet.

Moving into a life which is impacted by dementia can be a shocking experience.  The Person With Dementia (PWD) needs proper caring, loving support and round the clock nurturing.  The primary service provided by the Foundation is the support for PWDs’ and their families.  Ajit and Evangeline have been through a courageous journey and wish to share their story with the community.

A Carer’s Story by Evangeline Tilakawardane

I first met Ajit, a practicing lawyer in 1990, when he employed me as a coordinator in his Chambers. I moved on in 1992, but continued to keep in touch. In 2001, when I contacted Ajit on a legal matter, I realised there was something wrong. He seemed to be having some difficulty grasping what I was saying. As time went by I felt his condition was deteriorating. By the year 2003, I noticed that Ajit lacked motivation and concentration and suffered from depression. As a result he lost his confidence to practice.