Search This Blog

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Communicating and Dementia

Hey, I'm back after a long hiatus. Sorry, not really used to a schedule :p
Our Caretaker, R, has had a difficult time communicating with Claire recently. One thing I've learned is if what you are doing is not working then trying something new "usually" yields a different result. That's the theory anyway. It's been difficult for us to communicate in a way Claire understands. I can't imagine what it's like for someone who is new to the country and english is not their native tongue. So, I've been doing research online, looking for dementia tips/links/coping skills.
So here's a couple links that had some good information (first one is from Worksafe BC-a great series of videos):

Please share any others!
Cheers,
M




Thursday, April 15, 2010

Momma-sitting day

You always hear that when you get old, you revert back to your childhood. Benjamin Button, here we come! What you don't hear is that in this child-like stage you will probably possess enough of your marbles to know that you don't want to be treated like a child. You also believe you are at a different stage entirely that does not require any help. It's even more true if it is your child or grand-child who is treating you differently/trying to help.
This requires a huge dose of patience. Remember, with a child, they learn and grow. This reverse process takes something away every day.
This is our life, my husband and I are a part of the so called "sandwich generation". We have kids at home (Step-son and GF), an elderly parent at home (96-year-old Claire) and a foreign worker/live-in caretaker.
Today is the caretakers' day off and what I call "Momma-sitting" day.
Claire has dementia and must be hand fed and helped with every aspect of her life except reading.
Today's challenge is feeding. It's a s-l-o-w process because Claire is either too sleepy or day dreaming. It's nearly 2 and she hasn't ate her breakfast and only a couple bites of lunch.
I understand the desire to feed the elderly liquid protein shakes like "Boost", but I'm stubborn about her eating solid food as long as possible.
Force feeding or miming an airplane is not an option-so, not like a child at all, actually.
Patience and a good book or hobby(blog?) helps.
As she becomes more alert, hunger finally does kick in. Fortunately the carnal desire for food has not left. We can get on with our other routines.
This is a good day.