About Ann-Marie

For over 9 years, I cared for my mom after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's 10 years ago. I spent days with her while my sisters rotated nights. I watched her decline from mildly forgetful but physically healthy to severe cognitive loss and wheelchair bound. Yet she always recognized us and knew our names (there are six of us!). I believe this was because we kept her engaged daily. As her short-term memory faded, I noticed certain habits and interests remained. I adapted them to fit her abilities. Once, while loading the dishwasher, she carefully arranged dishes like a puzzle and proudly said, See, I made them all fit! That moment led me to buy her puzzles, which became part of her daily routine. Along with physical care, I managed bathing, dressing, medications, meals, housekeeping, errands, appointments, and yard work. I learned that quality of life in memory care means focusing on what still brings joy and independence, and building daily life around that.