A wedding against time: racing against dementia

For Terry Smith, 86, and Jo Johnson, 91, the vow "in sickness and in health" held a profound significance as they rushed to marry before dementia eroded the groom's memories.

Terry Smith, 86, and Jo Johnson, 91, exchanged vows in a poignant ceremony, accelerating their long-held plans to wed. Their decision came two years after Smith's diagnosis with dementia, prompting a desire to solidify their union while he could still fully cherish the special day. The couple, who have been together for 15 years, wanted to ensure Smith would remember their marriage before his condition progressed.

The intimate ceremony took place at the Lowestoft Register Office in Suffolk on November 21, bypassing elaborate formalities. "I've wanted to get married for a long time but never dared to say anything because he was ill," the bride shared, as quoted by the BBC. Despite Smith's ongoing battle with the illness, happiness filled their home. "He's very happy, and we're always walking around the house, singing together," Johnson said.

Smith and Johnson married after 15 years together. Photo: Luke Deal/BBC

Their late-life romance was orchestrated by Johnson's daughter, Vicky Sartain, six years after Johnson lost her previous husband. Initially, Johnson hesitated, feeling unprepared for a new relationship. However, her daughter's encouragement helped her open her heart to a second chance at love. "My mother is full of life and very optimistic. She needed to share her love and have a companion," Sartain explained.

Recalling their first meeting, Smith humorously recounted, "When we first met, she didn't want to know me. I'm not sure why." Despite this initial reluctance, his persistence led them to start dating, and their bond steadily grew.

The wedding day, November 21, also marked Johnson's birthday. The bride, radiant in a long dress and carrying a small bouquet, walked down the aisle arm-in-arm with her grandson Adam. David Hunt, the registrar, described the experience as "special" and an honor. Smith and Johnson were the oldest couple Hunt had ever officiated. "I've been with them every step of the way. I first met them over one year ago when they came to inquire about marriage procedures," Hunt recalled. "Now, they've almost become good friends of mine."

Dementia is a condition characterized by a decline in intellectual and cognitive functions, impairing daily activities. Alzheimer's neurodegenerative disease is the most common cause. Dementia can also result from other medical conditions such as: stroke, damaged blood vessels in the brain, traumatic brain injury, endocrine disorders, medication use, and substance abuse.

According to the Alzheimer's Society, approximately 1 million people in the UK are living with dementia. The condition primarily affects those over 65. The likelihood of developing dementia increases significantly with age: one in 14 people over 65 are affected, a rate that rises to one-sixth for those over 80. Dementia is also more prevalent in women than in men.