Memories

Names have not been a real strong point of mine.  If I have a bit to do with the person I eventually get it.  But if it is an introduction in passing there is a chance it will go in one ear and out the other.  I do not necessarily like it but it is the way it is.
Lately I have been noticing when I want to recall something in conversation it may not be there.  I will remember it the moment I do not need it.  The other day two of us were trying to recall the name of someone we both knew.  We knew them well.  It was a combined effort.  Eventually we got there.  I put that down to one of the joys of getting older.
I was considering memory this morning.  There are few things sadder to see than someone losing their memory.  Shared experiences become the domain of one.
The thing about dementia to is so often violence attends it.  We know someone who has someone close to them going through it.  It is never deserved but so often kids growing up are forgotten as are partners and so much becomes a threat that is responded to by lashing out.  No one deserves that and people can become a threat to themselves and others.
Although it is most common in people over 65 there is younger onset dementia.  Other factors include a family history of it and genetics.  They reckon the best way to avoid it or minimize it is to make a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.  From my experience other things can happen that while not causing dementia can have a negative impact on the brain.
Memory can definitely be a two-edged sword.  There are things I want to forget.  There are many things though I do not want to forget.  But dementia is a thief.  Choice is gone.  It is interesting to me that it is always a regression rather than an improvement.  People become their worst selves.
The thing is though it is too common.  More than 10,000 people a year get it in Australia.  For family or carers it is really hard to cope with.  Without divine intervention the best that can be done is the matter is managed rather than cured.  There is no known cure.
I am really thankful that for both my brother and I our strokes did not severely impact our memories.  We may not have been as quick as we were but it was all there.  Granted recall could be slower.
The dilemma I face is what is the result of the stroke and what is old age?  I am happy for people to go “oh that’s the stroke” when I make an idiot of myself as it can let me off the hook.  But I know.  Making an idiot of myself was always a reality.  I am human.  It happens.
I do think that where possible it is a good idea to get my house in order.  I may know who holds the future, but I do not know what the future holds.
While I can though I cherish good memories.