〜Doing what brings joy〜Emiko Nishizuka

“When a friend pointed it out and I went to see a doctor…”

In May 2019, my daughter took me to a hospital in Hachinohe City. The reason was that a friend had said to me, “Could it be dementia?” I was shocked and confused. At the hospital, I was unable to write the numbers correctly on a clock-drawing test. The doctor told me, “Let’s monitor the situation for now.” At that time, I had just retired at the age of 59 from a broiler processing factory where I had worked for 18 years.

Looking back, there were signs…

When I got married, my husband was already suffering from a mental illness. Caring for him while working left me sleep-deprived and exhausted. Thinking back after my friend’s comment, I recall several incidents. For example, I would go to the factory, see that there were no cars in the parking lot, and turn back home—this happened repeatedly. Another time, I saw that the outdoor toilet hadn’t been flushed and seriously thought, “The elderly neighbor must have come and forgotten to flush it.” I had absolutely no awareness that I was making mistakes, nor any sense of reflection. Gradually, anxiety about “What should I do from here?” began to grow.

Consulting a public health nurse… and finding connection

I read books and watched videos about dementia. Even though I understood things intellectually, my sense of isolation only deepened. I spoke with a public health nurse who had long supported me with concerns about my husband. Through that connection, in 2022, we established a group for people living with dementia. It brought me a sense of relief.

Our monthly peer meetings, the “Hanamizuki No Kai” and activities carried out together with support staff have been a great source of strength. We hold café gatherings, go on outings, and share meals we cook together. Since 2023, I have been working as a peer supporter. Traveling with support staff to other towns feels fresh and enjoyable.

In November 2025, I was appointed as an Aomori Prefecture Dementia Hope Ambassador.

Doing what brings joy

I have decided to live my daily life in a way that avoids things that feel burdensome—whether for people with dementia or those without. Instead, I choose to do what I find enjoyable. That includes my peer support activities and the Hanamizuki No Kai. In winter, I enjoy making crafts such as gourd art. It doesn’t matter if I’m not very good at it. This past summer, I worked part-time at an apple farm. They understood my dementia and kindly supported me—for example, by marking the ladder I used with pink tape just for me. That made me very happy.

Written By Emiko Nisjhizuka
Translated BY Satoshi Nakano