Risk-free, no obligation consultation

Blog

Terry Pratchett Gives Dementia Care a Patient’s Face

May 4, 2015
dementia care

The recent passing of Sir Terry Pratchett offers a rare view of dementia care, a view from the patient’s perspective. If you don’t know Sir Terry, he wrote fantasy and science fiction, publishing more than 70 books. He is best known for his whimsical Discworld series, which includes some 40 volumes set in “a flat world perched on the backs of four elephants which, in turn, stand on the back of a giant turtle.” His obituary from the BBC recounts the details of a remarkable life.

It is another of his works that provides his unique view of dementia. You see, Sir Terry suffered from posterior cortical atrophy, a rare variant of Alzheimer’s disease which affects vision. He was diagnosed in 2008 and put his fame behind a push for more research. In 2013, he was asked to provide the inaugural entry to Alzheimer’s Research UK’s dementia blog, which is dedicated to telling the stories in dementia patients. He wrote:

There isn’t one kind of dementia. There aren’t a dozen kinds. There are hundreds of thousands. Each person who lives with one of these diseases will be affected in uniquely destructive ways. Dementia attacks those facets which make us who we are, and it’s a deeply personal attack that defies prediction.

Sir Terry wrote about the fear the dementia inspires in all of us. “Dementia vies with cancer in an unsavoury battle of the scariest, but it must be said that some lucky people will survive cancer.” That fear infects not only the patients, but their family and friends as well. Those loved ones are the foundation of what he calls “a trained and compassionate care system” which includes family and caregivers working together.

If your loved one has dementia, selecting a caregiver is one of the most important decisions that you will make. Contact us to help you find someone with the training and compassion that your loved one needs.

Home Matters Can Help

In-home senior care offers a flexible and effective way to deliver personalized care to seniors within the comfort and security of their own homes. By understanding the services offered, recognizing the benefits, and knowing how to select the right provider, families can make informed decisions that significantly enhance the lives of their elderly loved ones.

If you are exploring in-home senior care for a loved one and seeking guidance, let us assist you in ensuring that your loved ones receive the highest standard of care during their later years.

Reach out to us or call (800) 298-5140 for a free in-home consultation to learn more about how we can help with customized, nurse-guided care. To see if our services are available in your area, visit our locations page.

Share this article
About the author

Tyler Williams

As an Area Owner and Operator of a Home Matters Caregiving franchise, I am committed to ensuring exceptional outcomes for our valued clients and caregivers. My passion for elevating our service quality is matched by my role as a blogger and social media manager for the franchise, where I share insights, updates, and foster community engagement. Prior to senior care, I used my strategic communication and brand development skills as the Marketing Director of a regional bank. My diverse experience supports my commitment to excellence and innovation in both healthcare and digital communication.
Linkedin Profile
Related Posts

Looking for Senior Care Franchise?

Home Matters Caregiving

Customer care
Home Care Services
Award-Winning Care
5.0

Based on 340 Google reviews

Senior Care Resources
About Home Matters
Looking for Senior Care Franchise?

Discover a rewarding opportunity with senior care franchises, combining purpose and proven success.

Contact Us
Home Matters Caregiving
Mon - Fri • 9am - 7pm PST
Schedule a free consultation
Mon - Fri • 9am - 7pm PST

Pick a convenient time to connect with a Home Matters Aging Coach.

5.0

Based on 340 Google reviews

“I love how supportive and dependable Home Matters was for my Grandmother during the time we had their services. Their caregivers are dependable and very attentive to their clients!”
Tiffany C
“We had some hiccups with another agency and then found Home Matters through a friend! They made sure we were heard and their scheduling team is very communicative! Very happy with HMC!”
Joshua Clasberry
“I am so grateful. All staff members were friendly, courteous and kind. I would recommend them to everyone that needs help in their home! They are rock stars!!!”
Kathleen Light
“Home Matters Caregiving has been taking care of my mother full time now for over 3 years. They are committed to helping people and always work hard to find the best caregivers possible.”
Pam Knell
5.0

Based on 340 Google reviews

“I love how supportive and dependable Home Matters was for my Grandmother during the time we had their services. Their caregivers are dependable and very attentive to their clients!”
Tiffany C
“We had some hiccups with another agency and then found Home Matters through a friend! They made sure we were heard and their scheduling team is very communicative! Very happy with HMC!”
Joshua Clasberry
“I am so grateful. All staff members were friendly, courteous and kind. I would recommend them to everyone that needs help in their home! They are rock stars!!!”
Kathleen Light
“Home Matters Caregiving has been taking care of my mother full time now for over 3 years. They are committed to helping people and always work hard to find the best caregivers possible.”
Pam Knell