In 2018, my mother’s memory started fading, and she lost interest in going to the mall, which was a significant change from her previous behavior. Before her memory decline, my mother was an expert at browsing without making any purchases. There was an incident at the King of Prussia Mall where a gas leak forced an evacuation, but my mother was unfazed and continued trying on clothes.
As her disease progressed, her disinterest in shopping became apparent, marking a pivotal moment in her diagnosis confirmation. During a Christmas visit in Toronto, I noticed my mother’s hesitation and lack of enthusiasm for shopping, which was unusual. Despite the cold weather and the confinement indoors, my parents’ visit was special, especially with the joy my mother expressed at the sight of our beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
My mother’s repetitive behaviors and moments of confusion were challenging yet brought some humor and warmth to our time together. Her persistent belief that my husband’s idea of having a tree indoors should be marketed was simultaneously funny and heartwarming. Despite the difficulties posed by Alzheimer’s, witnessing her delight at the Christmas tree repeatedly was a bittersweet experience that I now hold dear as a cherished memory.