Dad's place is really great at trying new avenues of comforting and giving purpose. As much as Dad loves seeing Tipper, it's not as easy for Tipper to travel. The community has 2 new pets though! They have a toy cat and dog that are specific for people with dementia and Alzheimer's. The animals act and react in the same way as a real animal. It's a comforting technique that offers interaction for people who enjoy animals. Of course, Dad is one of the best ones to try this out. In fact, the directors were opening the animals when I was there. Fred took the dog to Dad's room so I got to see his reaction. He loved it!!! Dad seemed to believe it was a real dog, but I didn't get a chance to talk to him about it afterward. He held it and suggested naming it "Earl".
Dad and "Earl"
Trying out the new robe while looking though pictures
One (of the many) reason I enjoy Dad's community so much is that get creative. The staff is always looking for ways to improve elder care. In fact, I had a conversation with the nurse last week. She has developed a program to improve one-on-one interaction between staff and elders. Nessa has developed cards with each elder's name on it. They are small enough to carry in their pockets, but it's a physical reminder to make eye contact or physical contact with each elder. In doing so, it helps the elder to calm and gives them individualized attention. Of course, the staff spends way more time than a few seconds with each resident, but it will hopefully improve eye contact and social conversation. The staff in memory care is amazing!! This new program will hopefully only serve to improve the care Dad is receiving. I feel like this community is best suited for him. He loves talking and interacting with others.
I try to walk around the community when I'm there to visit. I still drop off notes or little "happies" throughout the week. I hung a new wind chime outside his window a few days ago. When I'm visiting, I like to raise his blinds to let in some sunshine and to check on the bird feeder. Dad and I have seen a cardinal recently at his window sill. We moved the hook holding the feeder and chimes pretty close to Dad's window so he can see it well. I wasn't sure the birds would be brave enough to come that close, but it seems they don't mind.
If you want to read a little more on the benefits behind the new programs at Dad's place, these are a couple links that will offer a tiny bit more information:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/about/living-long-well-21st-century-strategic-directions-research-aging/research-suggests-positive
https://www.alzstore.com/alzheimers-companion-pet-therapy-p/0604.htm
As for Mom, the grandkids tend to be her best medicine. After talking with Mom's counselor, we agreed that it would be helpful to have a psychiatrist involved in case there is another med that might be more helpful in her healing. Last week, Mom went in to her counseling appt alone, which was the first time. I waited in the lobby in case there were questions, but really I'm thankful Mom is comfortable enough to go in alone so she has the opportunity to open up.
Mom spent the night with us last week. Her memory challenges are not as pronounced as Dad's so she is able to come over without confusion. Her behaviors are unlike her typical Annie reactions and such, so I feel the need to stick close by. Thankfully the kids are aware of Mom's health to some degree and are patient with her. Our smallest dog, Matilda, stays glued to my mom. I'm hoping to get Matilda's shot records and a much needed grooming so I can take her to visit Mom at her community.
Mom's community staff is wonderful to stay in touch about when to expect her back (especially for meal times and meds). They are so welcoming when Mom goes back in, which sometimes takes several minutes. The kids are super helpful too in encouraging Mom to return to her community. Usually, the kids sneak in some tv time at Hoo Hoo's!
So far, January has started off cold, but both Mom and Dad are doing well. They are staying healthy. Dad even got a good report from the electronic monitoring for his heart! I feel like we have several doctors' appointments to tackle over the next several weeks, but we'll get there! I'm still thankful to have both parents' nearby! Our family visits weekly and tries to stay on top of communication and family updates! Mom and Dad welcome pictures of anything going on in Arkansas!!
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