The Beat goes on

02/05/2015

You would think that Alzheimer would give everyone a break and just shut the heck up for one day. But, no, he is going to just keep butting in until someone has to pay attention to him. The past week has been an emotional roller coaster. New behaviors and routines are always hard to adjust too and this situation is no exception.

We have so far had a new nurse, social worker, nutritionist and physical therapist working on JW's health team come to our house. Believe me to go from no assistance to a steady stream of assistance is a big thing to adjust too. Mother is being a real trooper. She was adamant that she did not want anyone in the house. I was more adamant that if she wanted JW at home than she had to agree for home care. Well, everyone that has come into our home has been so gracious and kind that Mother and I have both had to take a step back and reevaluate the preconceived notions we had of home care.

JW fell two days ago and scraped his hand. The skin is so thin on his hand that it tears really easy. He had a small tear on his pinkie finger and when I went downstairs to do the feet (soak and rub down) I changed the huge bandage that Mother had put on and made the bandage a little smaller and more manageable for JW. The nutritionist happen to come over the next day and she said that she was going to mention to JW's nurse that he had fell. Well, that afternoon here comes the nurse to check on JW to make sure that he was not seriously injured. I almost cried. Worry is a constant companion. I know what everyone says, in the words of FROZEN, Let it go. Well, saying something and actively achieving that goal are two different things.

I am starting to relinquish the reins a little bit.  I am starting to trust that just maybe someone knows what my Father requires without my input. Alzheimer may try his best to kick your butt however you can still put up a good fight. Don't be afraid to voice your concern to the professionals. Only you know what seems right and what seems wrong. If you don't like something then let them know. You can compromise and come up with a solution that will make everyone happy (except Alzheimer). He is never satisfied.

Keep smiling and tapping your feet to the beat. It will go on whether you want it to or not.

Phyllis