Our blog entry today is on a narrative by Nancy Wurtzel, public relations professional, creative writer, and owner of the blog Dating Dementia, who relays the story of her mother's gradual decline into the hardships of Alzheimer's disease at the age of 85.
In her later stages after diagnosis, Wurtzel's mother, once highly social and outgoing, began to withdraw from the world and stopped attempting meaningful interactions or conversations. In her earlier stages, she began hoarding containers of old food and became obsessed with winning games like bingo or cards—often sulking like a child when she lost.
As her mother continued to withdraw and her years grew shorter and her world became smaller, Nancy turned to doll therapy, and hesitantly bought a soft-bodied realistic doll for her mother, hoping it would bring some comfort to her.
The effect was amazing. Upon giving her mother the doll, Nancy could tell she was instantly fascinated. Her mother and 'Baby Doll', as they called the doll, became inseparable. Caring for and interacting with Baby Doll gave Nancy's mother a new sense of purpose, companionship, and joy.
When Nancy's mother passed away in Nancy's own home under hospice care, Baby Doll was with her, cradled under her chin.
Read more: Baby doll brings comfort during the Alzheimer's journey
Doll therapy is similar in concept to using stuffed animals for comfort and healing, in the way that Memorable Pets does. Realistic and soft plush animals can give Alzheimer's and dementia patients a new purpose in caring for something, and create a strong bond between patient and pet that can last for the remainder of a loved one's life.
At Memorable Pets, we are highly dedicated to raising funds for Alzheimer's awareness and research, which is why a portion of the proceeds from each Memorable Pet goes toward Alzheimer's care. You can learn more about our selection of pets and how you can help at our website: memorablepets.com