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We first
noticed Mom repeating herself seven years
ago, but my father took good care of her and
"covered" for her forgetfulness. But when he
had his first stroke two years ago, her
dementia became more obvious. After his
third stroke, Dad was in a rehab hospital
for six weeks and we became painfully aware
that Mom was not safe at home.
She was
confused in her own kitchen and unable to
prepare nutritious meals. She was weak,
dizzy and often bewildered. She was unable
to learn the tasks that Dad has always taken
care of: transportation, finances and most
shopping.
My parents'
move to assisted living provided some
relief, but after three months there, Dad
died. The facility was gorgeous and
activities were offered, but Mom rarely left
her room, except for two meals a day,
occasional walks, or for a special program.
We felt she was losing even more mental
ability with so little interaction. So, she
agreed to move two hours south to New
Braunfels.
Mom has
been at AlzCare for six
months. Now these words come to mind when I
think of her: empowered, energetic,
cheerful, helpful, and purposeful. The
feeling of being "at home' in a big family
setting is reminiscent of how she grew up
and later raised five children. Her basic
needs are taken care of in a loving,
interactive environment, so she has strength
to enjoy her "work" and recreation. She
especially enjoys the outdoor gardening and
pecans from the huge pecan tree.
Our entire
family is grateful for the AlzCare
concept and for the people who make it a
reality every day.
Anita
Williams Dallas, Texas |
