In the twilight of his years, a gentle soul wanders,
Through the fog of memories, he ponders and ponders.
“Sometimes I forget what I said,” he softly sighs,
“And other times, I forget what I did,” as time flies.
They called him mad, a label unjustly given,
For in his mind’s maze, he was endlessly driven.
Did they pause to see the struggle within his gaze?
Or understand the storm, the silent, mental haze?
Each day a battle, each moment a fight,
To grasp fleeting memories, slipping out of sight.
His words once sharp, now lost in a tangled dance,
A mind once brilliant, robbed of its expanse.
In crowded rooms, he stood alone, unseen,
A figure fading, where he once had been.
Voices around, echoes of a life before,
Now strangers’ faces, nothing more.
They knew not of the illness that clouded his mind,
A sickness unseen, unkind, and woefully blind.
Dementia, a thief, stealing thoughts, leaving fear,
Yet, they met him with scorn, not a comforting cheer.
With a swift kick, they bruised more than just his frame,
They shattered his dignity, yet felt no shame.
In the face of ignorance, his spirit bled,
No solace found, in life or even in death’s bed.
So hear the whispers of a mind that’s lost,
The heavy toll, the unbearable cost.
For every memory that dims, a light goes out,
In the heart of the one we can’t do without.
Let this tale of sorrow open hearts and eyes,
To the hidden battles that in the shadows lie.
For every forgotten word, every lost track,
Deserves empathy, not a cold, callous attack.
So, remember the old man, once vibrant and wise,
Now a vessel of voids, under the same skies.
May we learn to lead with love, patience, and grace,
And in our warm embrace, may they find a safe place.
In the quiet moments of reflection, let us remember that behind every case of dementia is a life story filled with dreams, achievements, and cherished moments. As we advocate for awareness and understanding, may we also honor the dignity and humanity of each individual affected. Together, we can foster a world of empathy and support, ensuring that no one walks this journey alone.

Aging’s emotional expenses can be very painful and depressing. Well written and expressive poem.
Thank you for your heartfelt comment. Aging indeed stirs a deep well of emotions.
poignant and touching, John 🙏🤍
Thank you very much, Destiny. 😎
pleasure, John..🤍
Excellent service to humanity 👏 Nursing my mother was a gift I will cherish. AMEN
God bless you for taking care of your mother. 🙏