The L.O.V.E. Approach to Living with Dementia
A family, friends, and person-centered approach to treatment
The story of the sidewalk and the dandelion
When you see the dandelion, do you see a weed or a flower?
A weed is a plant growing where it doesn't belong, so by definition, the yellow dandelion is considered a weed. However, I, like you, see a beautiful flower. How we perceive our world is shaped by our knowledge and lived experiences. The dandelion posses a unique life cycle making it a wonderful metaphor of life by symbolizing resilience and emotional healing. And just like people, there are many types of flowers. The orchid for example, can only grow in a specific settings, but dandelions have the ability to thrive in diverse environments,
The crack in the sidewalk not only suggests the imperfections in ourselves, it also represents a place to flourish, embrace our authenticity and experience growth, as the dandelion illustrates its strength to burst forth from the earth. The path of our life's journey has unexpected changes, challenges, and even detours, much like sidewalks.
The image to the right represents the transformation of the dandelion from a bright yellow flower to a fluffy seed head, dispersing it's seeds for miles, and starting new life. As the seeds are blown away, with no control of where they will land, they represent a freedom of release and letting go to find new opportunities. A popular activity as a child was making a wish while blowing the little seeds and sending them on their journey.
Dandelions see no barriers, even pushing its way through the tiniest crack in concrete. Its resourcefulness and deep roots finds the nutrients from the soil, absorbs water, and forces it's way through the obstacle. The dandelion has a remarkable gift. creating beauty in unexpected places.
Are you a dandelion with the resilience and willingness to break through barriers, even during difficult times, or an orchid requiring specific conditions to flourish? Supporting someone living with dementia presents so many challenges, but having the willingness to stop trying to change the person, and adopt new approaches and changing ourselves, can make all the difference.
I'm Vicky Pitner and I'm a dandelion. However, I began as a sensitive little orchid looking for the perfect environment to grow, but quickly discovered I needed to be a dandelion in order to survive a challenging environment. I discovered new skills and transformed from a surviver to a thriver, and now I bounce back from adversities a bit quicker. You don't have to transform from an orchid to a dandelion because both are beautiful flowers, and both have special powers.
When supporting someone living with dementia, and adapting to the overwhelming responsibilities, you may feel you are just trying to "survive" some days. But if you will trust me, you will find the support and learn practical strategies to help you and your family member or friend.
