Some time ago, I came to realize there were many family caregivers here in Harpswell who were in need of support. As the town with the oldest population in the county with the oldest population in the state with the oldest population, the epidemic of dementia here is real. Residents and families living with dementia struggle to stay resilient while experiencing ambiguous loss, having a loved one who is physically present but psychologically absent.
I write to thank Harpswell Aging at Home for purchasing copies of “Loving Someone Who Has Dementia,” by Pauline Boss, for each member of the Dementia Caregivers Book Group that meets weekly at the Harpswell Town Office on Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. The group has been an invaluable support for those who attend to learn the tools needed to embrace, rather than resist, ambiguity. Wisdom, hope, humor and empathy are a part of each gathering, and the meetings are open to caregivers from all towns.
Successful aging in place will require a more dementia-friendly environment in Harpswell where brain change is a part of life and not a stigma to be feared. Please share this information about the group with family members and friends who could benefit from support in their caregiving journey.
Elizabeth Davis, Basin Point
