Mother And Son's Photographic Journey Through Dementia ✓ Solved
A Mother and Son's Photographic Journey through Dementia
After viewing the video, complete the following. What did the speaker’s mother do when he was taking photos in the mirror, blocking the bathroom door? At what age did his mother have her first child? The portrait of his mother’s silent scream was inspired by her asking “why is my head so full of things to say but before they reach ….” (finish the quote) Why doesn’t he take picture of his mother anymore? Finish this quote “life is about wanting live and not ….”
Paper For Above Instructions
Dementia is a heart-wrenching affliction that profoundly impacts not just the individuals experiencing cognitive decline but also their loved ones. The video in question offers a poignant look at a mother's struggle with dementia, as seen through the lens of her son, who documents this journey through photographs. The story unfolds through a series of intimate moments, highlighting the emotional turmoil and complexity that arises in such relationships. This response addresses the specific questions posed in the assignment by exploring the details shared in the video.
The Mother and the Bathroom Door
In the video, when the speaker was taking photos in the mirror, his mother attempted to block the bathroom door. This action symbolizes her not only seeking attention but also perhaps her confusion and desire to maintain some form of connection with her son amidst the cognitive changes she was facing. Such moments underscore the struggle that individuals with dementia encounter, as they often grapple with disorientation yet still wish to engage with their surroundings and loved ones.
The Age of First Child
The video reveals that the speaker’s mother had her first child at the age of 21. This detail provides a glimpse into her life before the challenges imposed by dementia. Understanding personal history is crucial as it paints a fuller picture of the individual, showcasing their journey and the roles they’ve played throughout their lives, which dementia radically alters.
The Silent Scream and the Incomplete Quote
The portrait of the mother’s silent scream was inspired by her asking, "why is my head so full of things to say but before they reach my mouth, I can't find the words." This powerful statement encapsulates the frustration many individuals with dementia experience, where their thoughts become muddled, and expression becomes an insurmountable challenge. This quote reflects a universal truth about communication, emphasizing the innate human desire to express oneself, which becomes tragically complicated in the face of cognitive decline.
Why Pictures Are No Longer Taken
The speaker notes that he no longer takes pictures of his mother because he finds it too painful to confront the reality of her condition. The act of photographing her shifting cognitive state serves as a reminder of her gradual loss of self, a visual documentation of a heartbreaking transition. The emotional burden of witnessing his mother change so dramatically, unable to convey herself as she once could, leads him to step back from capturing those moments.
Final Quote: Life is About Wanting to Live
Finishing the quote, “life is about wanting to live and not just existing,” touches on a crucial aspect of both dementia and individuality. This statement encapsulates the essence of what it means to be alive—the desire to actively participate in life rather than merely go through the motions. It highlights the contrast between living fully and merely existing, a distinction that becomes even more pronounced in the context of dementia.
Conclusion
The exploration of a mother and son's journey through dementia, as depicted in the video, reveals not only the profound emotional impacts of the disease but also the resilience of familial love. The son’s reflections on his experiences, including taking photos, speaking of his mother’s past, and understanding her struggles, offer insights into the multifaceted nature of dementia. Each element discussed—the blocking of the door, the age of motherhood, the silent scream, the abandonment of photography, and the essence of living—contributes to a greater understanding of how dementia reshapes identities and relationships.
References
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