I'm Still Here

I'm Still Here

Why do you talk about me
As if I am not here?
I' m the person that you've always known
Sitting in this well-worn armchair

My mind may not be what it was
My memories of the past locked away
Why can't you make eye-contact?
Why do you keep looking away?

I may forget important dates
But then you do too
Do you think I don't get embarrassed?
Needing help to go to the loo

Sometimes I get really confused
Putting things in an unusual place
And then when I can't find them
My steps I must retrace

I can remember driving
And paying all my own bills
Playing indoor bowls twice a week
And managing my pills

I remember giving money to those
Who came to mend my roof
They robbed me of my savings
Cos I  didn't ask for I.D. proof

You tell me I have mood swings
Arguing with you for no reason
My temperament confuses you
Like the changing of the seasons

I've just looked at my hand-clock
And it's time for you to go
“Excuse me, do I know you? I have dementia. Well, Hello"