On Forgetting by Therese Flanagan

5.0 out of 5 stars A rich, loving account that’s also full of practical information.

Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2021

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Both my parents died when they were 59. Though losing them so early was heartbreaking, I haven’t had to make the tough caregiving decisions or watch my parents’ slow decline like so many others have had to do. But I’m in my 70s now. I watch every memory slip with concern, because as I age the possibility of losing my ability to read and remember and understand is frightening. That’s why I was drawn to Therese’s book - and a little bit afraid to start it. But start it I did, and it was a true gift. I found the book full of love and humor. Of course there were tears, but the joyful moments, the wisecracking repartee and the pure humanity of the book are what have stayed with me. By the end of the book I felt like Maggie was an old friend I was grateful to have known. And Therese, who cared for Maggie with such gentleness and common sense, took a lot of the mystery and fear out of this disease for me. That doesn’t mean I don’t still clutch a bit when I forget a name, but the specter of dementia has lessened. Whether you’re a caregiver or someone who’s getting older and starting to think more about dementia and Alzheimer’s, do read this book. You won’t be sorry.