2:38
- ABC News
- June 22, 2018
Husband's rituals for wife with dementia
Carl Gacono helps his wife Mary Jane remember little things every day.
Becky said her parents and family have found truth in an age-old adage; laughter is the best medicine.
\"We just noticed that, if we were happy, she was happier,\" Becky said. \"She actually feels better when we’re enjoying each other -- she doesn’t know us by name anymore, and that’s OK. But she does know that we're people she loves and that's enough for all of us.\"
According to the Alzheimer's Association, 5.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's, which is the most common form of dementia, and that number increases every year.
Despite any difficulties, Carl said he is still thankful every day for his time with Mary Jane.
\"I wouldn’t trade the experience I’ve had taking care of my wife, OK. I’d like to think she wouldn’t trade the experience of having [and] taking care of me,\" he reasoned. \"We’ve had a great relationship. We’ve known each other for 70 years. We’ve been married for 67, I’d marry her for another 67 tomorrow.\"
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