Imagine watching someone you love slowly change before your eyes, their memories fading, their personality shifting. It’s a heartbreaking reality for millions of families facing Alzheimer’s disease. But here’s where it gets inspiring: one TRU professor has turned her personal journey into a powerful resource for caregivers. Dr. Doan’s book, She’s Still My Mother, isn’t just a story—it’s a lifeline for those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s.
Drawing from her background in early childhood development, Doan discovered a unique way to connect with her mother as the disease progressed. “Change is constant,” she reflects. “My mom was changing—her communication, her interactions—but she was still there. I learned to adapt to her, to see her in new ways.” This shift in perspective became the heart of her book, offering caregivers a roadmap for maintaining meaningful relationships with their loved ones.
And this is the part most people miss: Alzheimer’s doesn’t erase a person’s essence. Doan’s mother, for instance, remained a joyful soul even after losing her ability to speak. “She couldn’t talk, but she could still sing,” Doan recalls. “I realized communication isn’t just verbal. My mom expressed herself through body language, behavior, and music. She was still communicating—I just had to learn her new language.”
Organizations like the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C. play a crucial role in supporting families like Doan’s. “Our goal is to meet people where they are,” explains Hildebrand, a representative from the society. “Whether they’re seeking a diagnosis or adjusting to one, we provide resources and guidance every step of the way.” From informational sessions to specialized programs, these services help families understand and navigate the complexities of Alzheimer’s.
Doan’s book title, She’s Still My Mother, serves as a powerful reminder: “Even as they change, our loved ones are still there. They’re still themselves.” This message resonates deeply with caregivers, offering both comfort and hope.
But here’s the controversial question: How do we balance accepting the changes Alzheimer’s brings while holding onto the person we once knew? Doan’s work challenges us to rethink our approach, but it also sparks debate. Is it possible to truly ‘adapt’ to such profound changes, or does it risk losing sight of the person’s former self?
What do you think? Does Doan’s perspective offer a new way forward, or does it oversimplify the complexities of Alzheimer’s caregiving? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this important conversation going.
For more information on Alzheimer’s and available resources, visit the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C.’s website. Together, we can find ways to support those affected by this disease and honor the humanity that endures within them.
By Curtis Goodrum
