Do not ask me to remember: An Alzheimer’s Poem
Our Family Caregiver Specialist, Sheran Rivette, has contributed this poem by Owen Darnell to this quarterly newsletter. Sheran says “The impact it had for me was powerful, it helps to bring out a more empathetic, kinder response from the caregiver to be reminded of their loved one’s inability to manage their behavior.”
Do not ask me to remember,
Don’t try to make me understand,
Let me rest and know you’re with me,
Kiss my cheek and hold my hand.
I’m confused beyond your concept,
I am sad and sick and lost.
All I know is that I need you
To be with me at all cost.
Do not lose your patience with me,
Do not scold or curse or cry.
I can’t help the way I’m acting,
Can’t be different though I try.
Just remember that I need you,
That the best of me is gone,
Please don’t fail to stand beside me,
Love me ’til my life is done.
– Owen Darnell