Count your blessings.
I find myself sometimes envious of my friends whose elderly parents are still living independently. It wasn't so long ago that was the case for my Dad.
I remember that when I would visit he had the habit of telling the same stories over and over again. At the time I knew that someday he would not be here to tell those stories, so I never really minded hearing them.
What I hadn't counted on was his inability to express himself due to dementia. My misconception was that dementia was all about memory. Although, that is a part of the disease there are many other symptoms as well.
Although, Dad does seem to recognize his family, his speech is incomprehensible leaving you with a sense of sadness and loss. You know that he is attempting to communicate with you, but his brain just doesn't seem to be cooperating.
Oh, what I would give to hear those once familiar stories over again. Dad's quick wit and laugh is also something I miss each day.
Treasure those moments you have with your elderly parents, because they certainly are not guaranteed.
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