Q&A: Elin ap Hywel

Elin ap Hywel, a 58-year old woman in Aberystwyth with Alzheimer’s, answers our questions.

What’s changed most since your diagnosis? 

Not being able to get around as I used to, as I can no longer drive. Also, because I am unable to work, I do not feel that I am contributing.

My son is still at school and has adjusted gradually to my diagnosis; he is very supportive, as is my partner.

However, in some ways my life is better because now I have more time to read and meet friends. My son is still at school and has adjusted gradually to my diagnosis; he is very supportive, as is my partner. 

Elin ap Hywel

What would you take to your desert island? 

I would take lots of other people’s poetry to read; Welsh poetry both old and new. I would enjoy the solitude to immerse myself in reading the poetry but would miss my friends. It’d be good if I could take them too! 

How has Alzheimer’s Society helped you? 

I have a Side by Side volunteer who is a delight. She is full of life and fun. While I feel that I am doing OK at the moment, it is good to know the Society is there. 

What song or tune sums up your life so far? 

I really like Simon and Garfunkel songs, in particular The Boxer. I find the songs wistful and full of heart. To me, they are poetry put to music. 

I have a Side by Side volunteer who is a delight. She is full of life and fun.

What single thing would improve your quality of life? 

Getting my house in order and more organised would vastly improve my wellbeing. Unfortunately, this is something that I am currently finding rather overwhelming. 

If you could go back in time, where would you go? 

I do not think I would like to go back in time, after all you would never know who might be there! 

But I would love to be able to explore Ireland, it is a place I am drawn to because of the Celtic connections. 

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Dementia together magazine: Apr/May 20

Dementia together magazine is for everyone in the dementia movement and anyone affected by the condition.
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Dementia together magazine is for everyone in the dementia movement and anyone affected by the condition.
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1 comment

Can someone inform ms Ap Hywel fy mod i'n chwarae y Boxer er mwyn ei hanrhydeddu tim williams