Alzheimer's Awareness Month

 Hello!

On this final day of Alzheimer's awareness month, I thought I would make a brief post. It has been a rough seven plus weeks since we placed Dad. Mom continues to tell everyone that I pushed for the placement as well as letting them know I am attempting to push her out of her home.  Dad has faced three rounds of isolation and made it through all three, with the last one being the easiest of all. IT has been interesting visiting Dad, as I am never sure who I am going to see. It is easiest when my youngest daughter visits with me as Dad lights up and smiles the entire time. He seems to get upset when mom is with me. 

Mom and I visited yesterday and Dad wanted to talk about directions and what was going on in the halls of his home. I think it frustrated mom as she did not understand why this topic was of interest when we were there. I have tried to explain that we need to go with the flow when we visit and let Dad lead the conversation even if we do not understand the what and why of it.  Dad seemed to become enthusiastic when I participated in his conversation. He was a bit more animated and happy to lead the discussion.  Mom does not seem to understand what has happened, no matter how many times I have explained things to her. She feels that she is there to see Dad and he should be able to converse as they always have. I do not think Mom will ever understand. Dad has also experienced a number of falls at the home and staff is doing everything they can to prevent these occurrences. So far there have been no major injuries to handle. I hope this continues.

The staff at Dad's home has been wonderful. They are always willing to answer questions and help with any situation that comes up. Much of what happens are simple things, but it is nice to make sure we understand what is happening. They are also great with communication in any issue. Once again, unfortunately when I tell Mom the home has called she wants to know what has gone wrong this time. She has always looked for the negative.

Having a parent diagnosed with Alzheimer's has been rough. I hear and read about people who know what stage their loved one is at or aware of the type of the disease they are facing. We do not know this. I have asked but nobody seems to want to answer the question. The unknown hurts but it may also be good. What is next? Nobody can give us an answer. We need to accept things as they are and work with the staff as things come. This is going to be a journey. I hope I can ride it out!

Here is a video that an old friend shared on Facebook.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkRvK26bkTQ

Maybe it will help you understand this disease a bit more. If you are looking for additional information contact your local Alzheimer's society. They have been a wonderful support!

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