Elderly care has many funny moments. Some aren't necessarily meant to be... but those of you who care for elderly parents or other relatives already know that! The fact that the person who has Dementia may or may not be aware of their own age and capabilities can be dangerous, or hilarious. Yesterday was hilarious.I had gotten Rose up, surprisingly easily. More on that at another time. She finished her breakfast and we sat together at the kitchen table watching the birds flocking to her bird feeder. She realized it was her bird feeder. That may sound funny unless you've been with a person who has Dementia or Alzheimer's.
A beautiful Northern Flicker came to visit. We were discussing how much larger she was than the other birds, her distinct markings, etc. I said "You know, you can buy meal worms to feed those birds. Some people put out little dishes of worms, or stick them into holes in a little log for the Flickers and other woodpeckers to find." She looked at me in surprise.
"People do that??"
"Yes, they really do."
"Must have a lot of time on their hands."
"Well, that or they really enjoy caring for birds."
"I think probably older people do that."
Rose is going to be 96 soon.
A gentle look into the world of in-home care, as the end of life approaches. Addressing issues common to care at home, including Dementia, Alzheimers, Incontinence, Sleep, Food Preparation, Mobility, Anticipatory Grief, Fear, ALS, and Dignity. Stop. Listen. Look into their eyes. They have much to teach. Loving and caring for them will enrich your life. Learning how to speak to them and care for them will enrich theirs.
Haha...thanks for the laugh this morning! That is a classic!
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