McD's is the Way to Go
Dad still loves his fish filet from McDonald's. We had a little lunch date this week (8/30) in the community. I've been talking to the nurse and care staff about my hopes of taking Dad out to lunch and to visit some nearby stores. They take the residents out of the memory care area weekly to see how they react to the transition. Usually, that involves a walk in the garden or a special guest entertainer in the lobby. During those first few weeks in the community, Dad was still adjusting to "home" and seeking an exit. Over this past week, he has seemed more comfortable with coming back into the memory care area. He talks sometimes about it not feeling like home and the differences between himself and the other residents. That part is hard to hear because I recognize this myself. This is one of my main reasons for visiting daily...conversation and familiarity. The staff has been wonderful. They do interact as much as possible, but they also have responsibilities to the other residents. I've noticed Dad sitting at his desk and making notes (as he's done for years) often. He's been writing notes to Mom. Russ recently purchased a simplified remote to encourage Dad to watch tv at his leisure. Once we get the finances straightened out, I fully intend to purchase a simplified phone. It will allow Dad to make phone calls based on choosing a person's photo in place of dialing a number, while allowing me access to block unfamiliar phone numbers, such as telemarketers (which could cause increased confusion). There's whole world of tools and devices to help someone maintain independence even when their memory is failing. Dad and I often have conversation about his loss of independence and frustrations with the disease itself. I try to reassure him that he's in a good place to receive help when needed. He's very much able to do several things for himself and we press on to maintain that independence for as long as possible.
Furry Friend
Ms. Tipper continues to adjust to her new home...at my house. She's found a comfort spot in our bathroom. She still has a little bounce about her when there's food involved or when it's time to go outside. Unfortunately, she's had some tummy trouble lately, which may be related to her "dumpster diving". We've had to shut doors to deter her trash digging. Overall, she's still doing well. Tipper ignores my 2 dogs and they ignore her. I'm fairly certain she laughs when my dogs chase a tennis ball because she's already got the lazy dog life figured out!
And 1 and 2 and 3 and 4
I walked in yesterday to an excise class! I stood quietly in the back and observed the chair aerobics. Dad was participating and seemed to enjoy the activity. He has mentioned a couple times how hard it is for him to exercise in the community. With this TX heat, it makes it challenge to get outside much right now. I've encourage him to walk the halls and participate in these exercise classes for now, until the weather cools a bit.
Mom's Update
I spoke with Mom's doctor yesterday. He seems like a patient and genuine doctor, taking more than 30 minutes to discuss her care and treatment. The doctor gave me a glimpse of hope in mom's improvement. For now, she remains inpatient with medication changes and therapy. It's hard being away knowing she's in an unfamiliar place receiving care that she may not fully understand. What a blessing Sally and Aunt Lucy are for Mom though! They've taken turns visiting and updating me on their visits. For now, we press on with prayer and patience...and lots of hope too!
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