The Heart of Caring in the Age of Forgetting

Millions of capable adults lose their memory each year, and someone must answer the call to care. When her spirited mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Diane-Allene Hull navigated a maze of confusion, caregiving decisions, and emotional reckoning. The Heart of Caring in the Age of Forgetting is an unflinching memoir that charts one woman’s journey through the evolving landscape of dementia—medical assessments, assisted-living facilities, broken systems, and moments of unexpected grace. The author tells a story of fierce devotion, inner strength, and the enduring power of human connection. As a seasoned physician assistant, Hull has cared for complex patients, yet she was shaken when her mother failed to recognize her. Spanning mild cognitive impairment to the final stages of dementia, this deeply personal narrative blends reflection, medical insight, and practical guidance for caregivers. Part memoir, part guide, and part call to action, The Heart of Caring in the Age of Forgetting explores how Alzheimer’s disease reshapes identity, family, and the meaning of presence. Along the way, Hull confronts painful truths, discovers her resilience, and poses a vital question: What does it truly mean to care?