We are here in Toledo because John once owned a Triumph Herald in the 70’s, but secretly lusted after a Triumph Toledo and because our friends who have travelled extensively in Spain have told us it’s their favourite Spanish city. Toledo, ‘ La Ciudad Imperial’, the strategic and geographical crossroads of the Iberian peninsula, a melting pot of Roman, Visigothic, Jewish, and Muslim history and the heart of Catholic Spain, glows on the distant hill top beyond the plains of Castilla-La Mancha, as we share una botella de vino tinto and a lovely meal at Camping El Greco.

Before I know it, we are sitting outside our van and it’s our last evening before starting our journey home. I reflect on what a wonderful year this has been. I have been truly privileged to have had this opportunity to travel in our wonderful world. We started our journey in India last November and have voyaged in all directions of the compass. Now I am now looking forward to spending quality time with our family and friends. So, before you hit the road – whether staying local or going further afield – sit down in the motorhome and look around for possible issues… It is here in this seventeenth-century Baroque cathedral that Mozart was baptized and later regularly played some of his most popular tunes on the “Hoforgel,” one of five organs in the Cathedral. Salzburg Cathedral has survived more than 10 fires and was completely rebuilt three times in its 1200-year history. The dome, at 71 meters high, is impressive and the 16 frescos, each depicting a scene from the Old Testament, painted by Italian artists, Donato Mascagni and Ignazio Solari, are quite remarkable.Let’s be honest: travelling in a motorhome with a partner with dementia will be different – and could occasionally be difficult – but not necessarily impossible. Of course, a diagnosis could initially result in feelings of fear, disappointment, anger, resignation and depression. Your partner may not want to go out in the motorhome if it compromises their need to feel safe and secure. Later in the week we hire a canoe from the village, which is another test of John’s recovery. I’m in the driving seat but after managing to paddle the canoe several 360s, in both directions, John takes over pole position and we enjoy the rest of our paddle up and down this idyllic river.

Statistics tell us that some form of dementia will affect between 5 to 8% of us from the age of 60. This figure rises to 50% once we reach our mid 80s.

A patchy memory is aided by routine. So visit the places you’ve always loved, even if that’s just a few miles up the road. Alzheimer’s Research– the UK’s leading dementia research charity, dedicated to causes, diagnosis, prevention, treatment and cure.

Before I leave, I am keen to visit a Mosque to complete the triad of Abrahamic religions of Toledo. I set off to the old Muslim neighbourhood of Arrabal de Francos to visit the Mosque of the Tornerias. Desacralized by the Catholic Monarchs in 1505 is now used as the ‘Center Foundation of Promotion of the Crafts’. I didn’t know this at the time so on arrival there was no obvious Mosque on show, although I’m pretty sure I was standing over the spot! It is a normal reaction to feel that this is not fair – because it isn’t fair! You may resent that you are having to alter your future plans due to the dementia. But it is what it is. You’ll find yourself saying that a lot as you struggle with acceptance. An imposing landmark on the city’s skyline, it’s central Europe’s largest intact fortress and one of the best places for a panoramic view of the city. The fortress dates to 1077 and was built to protect the archbishops from hostile troops. We took the funicular to the top and strolled amongst the courtyards and fortress walls. Also, for those interested in Salzburg’s history don’t miss its many museums; the Marrionette Museum, Museums of the Rainer Regiment and the Princes’ Chambers. Indeed, as the condition develops, you may need to limit your travel so that week-long road trips become ‘day drives’ instead. This can be just as rewarding.

Maybe you or your partner has known for some time that “something” is wrong. But what are the first clues that point toward the possibility of dementia? To maintain sequential memory – the memory which allows you to complete a linked series of tasks such as making a pot of tea – keep mugs, cutlery, tea bags etc. in their allocated place. Label the outside of the cupboard doors if it helps. Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically draining; this is someone you love, someone you have possibly spent your life with. They are changing and your relationship is changing. The monster under the sofa bed becomes real if you pretend to throw him out! (Often the “monster” turns out to be nothing more than a bundle of dirty linen). And finally, use the charities and professionals (listed below) because their advice has been gained from years of experience. They will also offer a listening, non-judgemental ear.