We hear regularly from families of loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease who tell us that the words of a favorite quote, poem or scripture are what get them through those tough days when they feel helpless and, often, hopeless.
We took some time to scour a variety of sources and found what we think are some beautiful words of wisdom. We hope they are helpful to you as well. Feel free to pass this along to a friend or family member who could use some encouragement too.
“Caring about others, running the risk of feeling, and leaving an impact on people brings happiness.”
-Rabbi Harold Kushner
“Caregiving often calls us to lean into love we didn’t know possible.”
― Tia Walker, from The Inspired Caregiver: Finding Joy While Caring for Those You Love
“Embracing a healing presence requires you to just be in the moment together.”
― Nancy L. Kriseman, from The Mindful Caregiver: Finding Ease in the Caregiving Journey
“Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway.”
— Emory Austin
“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.”
- Margaret Mead
“Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only robs today of its joy.”
— Leo Buscaglia, author, professor, motivational speaker
"When you can think of yesterday without regret and tomorrow without fear, you are near contentment."
–Source Unknown
“Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.”
– Maya Angelou
“From caring comes courage.”
– Lao Tzu
“No matter what the relationship was between the parent and child—whatever it was—this is going to be extremely challenging because it is not logical. There’s no way to deal with it rationally or directly. You don’t reason it out. What I’ve said to so many people is: we always must lead with our love.”
― Dr. Stephen Hoag, in an interview with Alzheimers.net about A Son’s Handbook: Bringing Up Mom with Alzheimer’s/Dementia
"Impossible situations can become possible miracles."
–Robert H. Schuller
As helpful as positive words can be, nothing can replace getting support from other caregivers and professionals who understand your world and your worries. If you haven’t already done so, consider attending a dementia support group in your area. Anthem Memory Care communities provide free monthly meetings. You can visit our Community pages for one near you.