It started with small things, like not remembering where she put the keys. But when it progressed into more serious situations, like forgetting to turn off the stove, Kathy Davis and her three brothers knew it extended beyond the normal effects of aging and posed a safety risk. Kathy’s mother, Doris Simmons, started showing signs of dementia eight years ago.
Doris, 89, is a resident of Mustang Creek Estates of Burleson and has four children, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. For 63 years, she was married to a man who loved her unconditionally and would do anything to protect his family, including covering up the signs of his wife’s dementia so their children wouldn’t worry. After he passed away, Kathy and her brothers noticed the memory decline, and they realized she needed a safe environment near Davis’ home with expert care. Kathy visits her mother at Mustang Creek Estates several times a week and feels closer to her than ever before.
“Since my mom was diagnosed with dementia, I have learned a lot of things and one of them is patience as she tends to repeat herself a lot,” said Kathy. “I believe our relationship has grown stronger over the past few years. She has always been an amazing mother to me, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be there for her when she needs me – and frankly – even when she doesn’t.” Doris has always focused on her family and made a big deal out of holidays and her children’s birthdays. Davis remembers when her mother would bake birthday cakes for them. She also recalls when her mother taught her how to sew on a sewing machine. Today, when Kathy visits her mother, they play dominos together, do their nails and hair and other things that allow them to create an even stronger bond.
“It is so important to raise awareness about dementia, and I want people who have even a slight suspicion that something is odd about their parents or loved ones to please pay close attention to them,” said Kathy. “Now, when I just look into my mother’s eyes, I see such a distance; it’s almost like she is missing a spark. It breaks my heart in a way, but I am thankful that other than her memory, she is completely healthy.”
Mustang Creek Estates of Burleson is an assisted living community with some homes dedicated to memory care. The senior living community realizes the importance of raising funds and awareness about Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. To recognize the five million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and the 16 million caregivers who attend to their needs, Mustang Creek Estates of Burleson continually supports the Alzheimer’s Association through various initiatives, including participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.