Dementia CAREShare

Caregiver Advocacy Resource Education Support

About Us

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Jane Wyatt, and I live in the rural town of Wimberley, Texas. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with M.A. in Health Education and a M.S. in Guidance and Counseling.

For years I worked in hospice care as a counselor and educator. It was during that time I came to understand the existence of the hidden patients, a term used to define issues incurred not by the patient, but the family and friends attending to those with chronic or long-term illness.
Ultimately, I became the primary caregiver for my mother, dealing with her progressive dementia. I found that I was only aware of the tip of the iceberg regarding caregiver issues.

With my Mother’s passing in 2020, my personal calling became obvious. Because I had been so desperate for information, I recognized the urgent need for caregivers to have readily available resources at their fingertips. I understood that caregivers, often pressed for time, may not have the luxury to delve into extensive reading or conduct time-consuming internet research.

In response to this need, I initiated the creation of the Caregiver 10 Minute Guides. These guides are designed to provide essential information in an easily digestible format, allowing caregivers to quickly absorb the necessary knowledge. In 2021, I published the first book, "Visiting with Love: Productive Activities for Memory and Elder Care Residents". My aim was to equip not only primary caregivers but also family members and friends with the tools to make their visits to residents a more comfortable and less daunting experience. Today, the series has expanded to include three books, with more in the pipeline.

In addition to writing, I have had the privilege of sharing my insights at various platforms, ranging from workshops and churches to public libraries. In 2024, I extended my reach by posting short, informative videos online, offering tips and inspiration to dementia caregivers.

My legacy project remains crystal clear. The journey I embarked on with my mother, coupled with my educational background, has shaped my purpose: to offer as much support as I can to those caring for individuals with dementia.
About the Forget-Me-Not Flower Emblem
The emblem I've chosen for Dementia CAREShare is the Forget-Me-Not flower, a symbol frequently adopted by the Alzheimer’s Association and similar organizations. This delicate bloom represents hope, courage, and resilience for those battling or caring for individuals afflicted with memory-impairing diseases.

However, I've chosen this symbol to convey a slightly nuanced message. I envision this flower, this plea, as the final request of any individual living with dementia.

Please, forget me not.

Remember me as I was before this devastating disease began to erode my mind. Cherish the joyful moments we shared, and all the ordinary times in between. As you grapple with the hollow shell that now mirrors the person you once knew, I implore you to show compassion in caring for me. Visit me, even when I no longer recognize you. Ensure that I am nourished and looked after, as I am no longer capable of doing these things for myself. Forgive me for any instances where I may have upset you, and know that I forgive you too. Understand that I love you, even when I am unable to express it.

When my journey on this earth concludes, I ask that you gently tuck away the memories of me as I am now into a distant corner of your mind. Instead, hold onto the vivid image of who I used to be, when I was your friend, your mother, your father, your son, or your daughter. That is the person I hope you remember.
© Dementia CAREShare  2024
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