Shocked with not being able to drive rather than the result of diagnosis itself

When I was diagnosed at the age of 62, I thought, ’Why me?’. However, since I had seen my mother, who had dementia, living her life peacefully, I didn’t have much of a negative image of dementia, and I wasn’t too discouraged. Rather than the diagnosis itself, I was very disappointed by been told that I could not drive any longer.
Participating in the “Family Association” of AAJ and making some friends
I was referred to a Young-Onset Dementia Support Coordinator by the hospital where I received my diagnosis. I learned about the AAJ and started participating in the “Midori-no-komachi” – a monthly social gathering for people with dementia and their families. At the gathering, I enjoy singing, playing sports, and chatting. I think that if I go there, I will be able to strive together with others who have received the same diagnosis, and I might be able to give them encouragement as well. I have deepened my relationship with a couple I met via AAJ by attending lectures together and sharing meals.

New Challenges

After my diagnosis, I started making relief sculptures of Buddhist statues. My wife and I attend a course at a culture center twice a month. I’m not very good at remembering new things, so it takes me time to learn them, but I manage to get through by being resourceful. In 2024, I was able to exhibit my work at an art exhibition.
I have liked cooking since long ago, and even though my wife says my skills have gradually gotten worse, I still continue to do it. I live very close to Lake Kouzu, so on sunny days, I enjoy walking in nature for about one or two hours. Additionally, I participate in a garbage collection volunteer activity at Lake Kouzu once a month. On Wednesday afternoons, I am dedicated to strength training at a day center.

There are many things I can do

I’m still times when I feel down and times when I have the determination not to lose. However, since we never know when we die, I want to enjoy what I can do together with my family now. The constraints that come with a diagnosis are not to limited to dementia. I was able to take a trip far away using public transportation the other day, even though I can’t drive. I feel that there are still many thing I can do. I hope that by sharing my own experience, I can help professionals and provide an opportunity for those who have recently been diagnosed to know that they are not alone.

Written by Kiyoshi Okada
Translated by Satoshi Nakano