When do I tell someone about my diagnosis?

Oct. 25, 2020 (Chapter 1 Symptoms and Diagnosis & Chapter 6 Living with a Memory Impairment in my book)

Since I was diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment in 2005, I tell someone on a "need to know basis." That is not something that I want someone else to decide for me. When I was working two jobs, there were staff at both jobs who knew and some who didn't. Anyone who I'm very close to needs to know because more than like1ly, we are going to be spending a lot of time together. Chances are that if I didn't tell them, they might suspect that something was wrong.

I think that you have to find a way to protect your privacy but I also think that the only way someone with a memory impairment can feel supported is if the people who they spend the most time with know about the diagnosis. They will need to show the person patience, compassion and understanding. You don’t need any one in your life who is impatient, demanding, or judgmental.