I Can’t Just Stand Still

When I received my diagnosis, I didn’t want to accept it. But the biomarkers were there, so I felt I had no choice but to accept the reality. I had to give up driving, which I loved, as well as the work that I had always felt was my true calling.
But for the sake of my family, I can’t just stand still.

Life After Returning to Japan

In my daily life, I attend BLG Hachioji* and also use care services. BLG is a lively place, with all kinds of events and frequent visitors. Its director, Takuya Moriya, is cheerful and dependable, always speaking to us with a touch of humor. My care manager found a way for me to start using services that felt comfortable, even though I had initially been somewhat reluctant to accept support. Recently, with a little help, I have started cooking again, something I used to enjoy as a hobby. The dishes I made using my old recipe books were well received by my home helper, who happily told me, “I tried making that at home too.” That made me very happy. As part of my home nursing care, I also go for walks with an energetic occupational therapist. The walks give me a good workout, and we enjoy chatting about everyday things along the way.

Getting Involved in the Community

Whenever someone invites me to take part in an event or activity, I try to participate. Recently, someone from Nerima City invited me to speak at a gathering attended by staff from community comprehensive support centers across the area. I feel better when I am meeting and talking with people. And if doing so can be of some help to others, I am always happy to go.

Things I Look Forward To

Now that I have the time, I often travel with my family. Two Christmases ago, we went to New York. New York is a special place for me and has had a profound influence on my life. I moved to the United States just one week before the September 11 attacks in 2001. I witnessed the strength of America as it rose again in the aftermath of the attacks. Ever since then, I have tried to live my own life with that same resilience, and that feeling has not changed even now. At the same time, I still love the simple pleasure of spending time at the beach. And in the future, I would also like to travel to Europe.

Take on New Challenges While You Can

I always keep this thought in mind: “There are still things you can do even after developing dementia.” If there is something you want to do, I encourage you to take on the challenge while you can.
At the same time, if you begin to feel that something may be wrong, it is important to seek medical advice early and begin treatment as soon as possible. Early treatment may help slow the progression of the condition.

* BLG stands for B (Barriers), L (Life), and G (Gathering). It is a membership-based, co-creative dementia community that enables people to connect with their local communities, wider society, and one another.

Written By Taisei Kinoshita
Translated BY Satoshi Nakano