I've started a new blog.
I focus on early onset dementia from a mother's perspective.
https://dementiadaybyday.blogspot.com/
Most of the time, children take care of parents who've grown older. Parents who face the challenges of Alzheimer's or Dementia.
Shelley and I are the odd ones out.
When I check into the community where she lives, if the receptionist doesn't know me, she'll ask, "Are you her daughter or her sister?"
The mouth drops open when I say, "I'm her mom."
I go often, and most of the people know me, but there are usually new aides or office personnel to meet. Memory care facilities seem to have a large turnover. Shelley has been in the current facility since 2020, and we are on the third management team.
I'm pleased two of the aides reman. If not for these two people, I might move her.
One of the aides saved her life when she was attacked. You can read about it under the "Dealing with Dementia" tab on this blog. Shelley lights up when this person is nearby. Somewhere, deep in the recesses of her brain, she remembers and appreciates the aide saving her life.
Today was a good day for her. She was up walking the hallways when her dad and I went to see her. She could almost remember things I spoke about.
I don't say, "Do you remember...." I talk about past events or people. When I told her Don (her deceased husband) was in heaven with Jesus having a good time. He was singing, playing the guitar, and laughing.. She responded, "I want to go be with him." I told her she would go there one day, but today, we were going to sing in her room. We then sang her favorite song. "You Are My Sunshine." And yes, she sang the words on key!
A good day.
She told us over and over,
"I love you."
A very good day.
I invite you to follow my new blog.
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