I took all kinds of fresh fruit, juice and snacks when Wayne was first admitted.
Lately I spend at least one meal with him and see why he hasn’t been eating his treats! He doesn’t need them.
I’m really impressed with the quality and variety of food offered including 2 snacks mid morn and afternoon.
Today we had a lady sit at our table, her mind absorbed about her husband. She kept saying she knew he wasn’t dead but where was he, could he find her, would he know where to look, etc.
Food was the last thing on her mind and it took some mighty persuasion to get her to eat. After I tucked Wayne in for his nap I told the desk I was on my way. They thanked me immensely for helping her – I didn’t really think about it at the time but a staff would have had to sit and feed her.
15 Comments
Beverly W. referred me to your blog, as my 92-year-old Mom has entered more fully into dementia, quite quickly, it has seemed. Looking back, we can see signs that we just hadn’t recognized for what they meant.
Mom currently lives in an independent living home and just began using some services offered by a caregiver, there. They don’t offer medical services of any kind, and we’re aware that she may need to be moved, soon. She is having small strokes and has also entered the paranoid and verbally abusive stage–which I know not everyone goes through.
So I’m wondering what state you and Wayne are in, as you speak very highly of the facility where he was admitted.
This is difficult enough, when the patient is a parent. I cannot imagine my husband or I having to go through this with the other, but I know it is likely. My heart goes out to you and Wayne!
You’ve been on my thoughts so much……
It’s so wonderful that you found a home for Wayne that provides so well for him.
Hugs,
Dolores
Jean, you’re a blessed woman– always taking the time to help others, no matter where you are. You’re an example to everyone around you. I am praying for peaceful adjustment for both you and Wayne.
Love, Laura
You always sing the praises of the “angels” in your life but i don’t think you see how much of an angel you are in the lives of others.
HUGS
When my mom was first admitted, a 97 year old lady befriended her. She would “go get” my mom for meals….My mom would push Gladys’s wheelchair to the dining room. Gladys would encourage my mama to eat her meals….After my mama died I would go back and visit Gladys….she was my mama’s angel….
You are going to be used greatly in the place where Wayne is living. I am glad they have such good food and that he is in such a good place. Prayers and hugs…Mary Lou
I think I’ll steal Mid-Life Slices comment – I liked what she said. You really are an angel, Jean.
You found a jewel today. God will use you mightily there. I remember one of the last days I was sitting in the diagnostic side of the mammography floor. I realized everyone there was on that side because they were one step closer to a dreaded diagnosis of cancer. Nothing routine for them. I had forgotten. It had become routine for me. Something as simple as a smile or a few kind words spoke volumes of comfort to the distressed one. I was so sorry I hadn’t realized sooner that I had an additional purpose beyond my circumstances. You are that Light to others, Jean. Not that it’s the plight you’d choose, but while you’re there, you make the most of it. In the same way, the blog ministers to others in your boat. So glad you reminded me of my own purpose today. Love you, Annette
I just read the last 4 posts to catch up. It must be very difficult for you both to adjust. My prayers are with you. What a blessing you are to others even while you are in the middle of it yourself. I admire your strength and kindness.
Hugs,
SMB
I agree with Laura (as well as the rest). You can be a great help to them, Jean, and yourself too.
So nice to hear the food is good. In the nursing home where my M-I-L stayed, they had food “stations” along the corridors for the speedy wanderers. While they were pacing, they could grab hand-held nutritious food as they went on their way. One patient “Mr. Jones” always smiled and waved to us as he made his circles. Once my husband asked, “Mr. Jones, with all this walking you must be exhausted.” Mr. Jones replied, “OH, I am…I am,” as he made another tour with his walker.
There you go – taking care of others. I am so amazed by you. Sandie
Be careful Jean. You are just the sort of visitor the staff loves and they will start looking forward to your visits so they can get a break:)
It sounds like a nice facility for Wayne.
Oh dear Jean, you needed to know and now you do. You must be exhausted, but every step you take is the right one on a road that no one wants to be on and yet we all will be in some variation or other. Big hug to you!
What a relief for you…usually the food is dreadful. You’re blessed with such wonderful care givers and facilities…your Canada is way ahead of the game in my view.
Good staff, good, caring staff is such a gift for the patient, and for the family!