As human beings live longer, the number of individuals experiencing dementia is increasing. Dementia patients are lost in their own world, disconnected from day-to-day reality in their own particular ways. But the experiences of the caregivers—spouses, children, relatives—are very real.
This work is emotionally demanding, watching the loved one disappear. This work is physically demanding, taking full charge of the household and the demented loved one.
The love that was sexual is gone. The love that was intimacy is gone. The love that is mutuality is gone. What’s left is love that is not often talked about—the love that is loyalty and duty. This is a love that comes out of compassion and commitment, that expects no return.
Authentic love is always tested.
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