This blog is about life with my husband who was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's and Frontal Lobe Dementia in 2008. He was 64 at the time although now, knowing more about the disease, Alzheimer's was present many, many years ago, which is why early detection is so important. As you read the blog the character "Al" that I created in 2008, represents the way that Alzheimer's is invading our daily lives.
There is an archive tab further down the page that starts from the beginning of our journey.

Monday, March 21, 2011

Living with Bob and Al

"Al" called Sheri frantically at about 5:30 last evening
"Oh, thank God I got of a hold of you!" "I am stuck here with no way to get home"
"I could not figure out how to get a hold of you! Then I found your number in a white binder
in the drawer." Sheri says, "Well I am pulling into the parking lot with your clean clothes right now.
We will hang them up and get ready for dinner." Long pause on the other end of the phone."Oh, okay I didn't know that"replies Bob.
Although she believes Bob and "Al " are getting good care there, Sheri does not like the smell, the stillness or the silence there. It is like death is at every doorway. One lady wears the same clothes every day.
One lady lays in the same position day after day, they look like they are begging for someone to interact with them. Sheri has always had a special place in her heart for seniors, and seeing how these folks are spending the golden years of their life, is breaking Sheri's heart.
Bob is in the long term care side of the home because there were not any beds in short term when he arrived,
now Sheri does not want him moved because of the confusion factor. Anyway she went to the short term care area and nothing more was going on there. She feels like these folks are broken of spirit, no music, no life.
Sheri is sure it is it is not an easy problem to fix, and she believes the  people care. Sheri just doesn't like it.

1 comment:

  1. The smell of a nursing home is the worst. I am sorry that you are experiencing such heartache. I feel the same way about the folks in homes. I always want to take the home with me.

    You can always find a better home, one that doesn't smell. I've been visiting lots of places and found a few without that horrible smell lingering in the air. They do exist. However, I understand your apprehension because of Bob's confusion.

    Stay strong, you are a compassionate individual with a big heart. Prayers are sent your way... {{{{{{big hugs}}}}}}}}}

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