I feel blessed that my Mom’s life was enriched by Cognitive Stimulation Therapy while she was coping with stroke dementia.

She was a prolific reader all of  her life, especially after she retired, but could not face opening a book or even watching a television program.
Nor could she participate in the activities provided by her new retirement home unless I was present with her.

Finding a service that provided the one on one stimulation she needed, with a neutral caring person, improved Mom’s quality of life.
She had begun to feel that there was nothing she could do and exhibited many anxious moments.
She was immediately comfortable with Ann and thoroughly enjoyed the sessions to which she gave her full concentration for the two hours.

The cognitive techniques Ann used kept her engaged and oriented to her environment.
The cuing used to help her recognize her circle of support was extremely helpful.

Mom even put her hand to a paint brush which I was unable to persuade her to do.
She was able to draw on all that reading she had enjoyed all her life for the comprehension exercises.
I noticed that the sessions calmed her and made her feel more purposeful.
The exercises were geared to her ability so she felt quite proud and accomplished to be able to complete them.

Staff at the residence informed me that shortly after beginning the program, she stopped leaving her room and wandering at night.
They also found her more alert and we noticed that she could engage other residents in more social conversations.
She even encouraged them and told them they looked wonderful when they felt poorly.

Mom wasn’t the only one to benefit from this program.
Being an only child, I also felt better that someone else was sharing the time needed with Mom and that Mom was able to develop an emotional connection with Ann.
Mom’s face lit up every time Ann came to her residence.
I still remember that time filled with good memories.