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I wrote this a few years ago, but just added switch me to a finger-food diet, and see if
four more “things” to my list. I can still feed myself.

If I get dementia, I’d like my family to hang • If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious,
this wish list up on the wall where I live. I hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me
want them to remember these things. The that my feelings are unfounded.
original list was also published in my book, • If I get dementia, I don’t want to be
When Someone You Know is Living in a treated like a child. Talk to me like the
Dementia Care Community. adult that I am.
• If I get dementia, I want my friends and • If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the
family to embrace my reality. If I think my things that I’ve always enjoyed. Help me
spouse is still alive, or if I think we’re visit- find a way to exercise, read, and visit with
ing my parents for dinner, let me believe friends.
those things. I’ll be much happier for it. • If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a
• If I get dementia, don’t argue with me story from my past.
about what is true for me versus what is • If I get dementia, and I become agitated,
true for you. take the time to figure out what is bother-
• If I get dementia, and I am not sure who ing me.
you are, do not take it personally. My • If I get dementia, treat me the way that
timeline is confusing to me. you would want to be treated.
• If I get dementia, and can no longer use • If I get dementia, make sure that there
utensils, do not start feeding me. Instead,

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