A Family Affair

Fay had a wonderful time visiting with her children, a bevy of grandchildren (Bethany, Sarah, Brighton and husband,  Ryan, Ty and wife, Diane), and even a trio of lovely great grandchildren (Shilo, Spencer, and Hannah).

We took some pictures which will be posted.  We also found some interesting photos among the boxes in the storage unit.  I will try to post those as well.

Last night when I arrived for dinner, I found an older gentleman, Terrell, had been placed opposite  Fay at her  table.  His wife, Evelyn, was also there with him.  He seems to have alzheimers. (and unlike the other residents, he does not require a wheelchair.)  Fay picked up on his behavior immediately.  She was very alert, watching his every move like a cat.  I haven't seen her this intensely focused on anyone or anything for a while.  She finally relaxed after he left the table.  I took her to her room to get things ready for bed, etc.  This is usually when we will chat.  I sat down on her bed and began asking her the normal questions, waiting for her to answer.  I finally realized, after lifting her sunglasses, that she was sleeping.  I waited a while, because this does happen on occasion, but she continued sleeping.  I  left when Ashley, the aide, started to get her ready for bed. 

  I am not sure why she was so fixated on Terrell.  It could have been something else -5 residents were quite ill after having the fish for lunch.  Perhaps her stomach was upset.... I will try to talk to her about this tonight.  

"Use your own judgement"

Tonight Fay was alert and on top of things.  She ate well, however she did not care for the 'roast beef.'  (Remember, everything is pureed.)  

We read from her journal, I asked if she wanted to continue reading.  She said, very clearly, "use your own judgement." I did.  We read on.  She said she remembered the events we read about.  I really think she did.  There are many lessons to be learned from that journal.

It has been very cold in Austin recently.  Fay has been warmly dressed everyday. 

I hate to leave when she is having a good day as they are not as frequent as they used to be.  

She is looking forward to the big family visit next weekend!  We will take lots of pictures.

Beautiful Dreamer

I have been reluctant to post recently in hopes that things would improve.  The last few weeks Fay has been dozing, nodding off, just plain snoozing a lot.  At dinner she drifts off between bites.    

She had her nails done last night and lightly snored through the entire process.  

This evening I asked the nurses if her meds had changed.  I told them she was sleeping excessively.

I was told that this is part of the dementia process, first swallowing problems, then increasing weakness and  a lot more sleep.  So that's where we are.

When alert, she loves to hear about the upcoming visit.  She is thrilled that her children and Brighton and Ryan are coming to see her!