A parent with Alzheimer's is like being on a perpetual roller coaster ride - constant ups and downs. Ever since Dad has come to live with us and then going into the nursing home, his physical and mental health have gone up and down and not always in synchronization. Mom is on the same ride just in a different car and no one is having a fun.
Dad has gone from not eating hardly anything to eating more recently - a pattern repeated over the last three years. He has been bed ridden for most of the past few months with occasional outings in a wheelchair. Recently, on Tuesday, April 24th, Dad tried to get out of bed and go for a walk but fell and cut himself because he didn't realize how weak he had become. In his mind he's been up and about on a daily basis going for walks, playing ball, working, etc.
The last four visits Dad has recognized me when I arrive and will start to weep. Later during the visit he will think I'm his father. I always make it a point to talk about each of his brothers and sisters; sometimes he recognizes their names and at other times he does not. When I point to pictures of Bruce or Joyce he hesitates naming them; sometimes he gets it right but more and more he gets the names confused. Lately he says his daughter's name is Rachel (actually his sister and his daughter's name is Joyce).
Mom's ups and downs are different. She is struggling with a yet-to-be determined skin condition that has her constantly itching and thus spreading the condition. She sees another doctor tomorrow for a second opinion.
Joyce, Bruce and I appreciate all you family members taking this roller coaster ride with us. We know it is not easy since many of you are also dealing with a parent with Alzheimer's but we thank you for your visits and/or encouraging words.
Here are some pictures and videos of Mom & Dad:
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| Here is Shelley encouraging Dad to drink water. Even though He isn't eating much, he is drinking sufficient fluids. |
Above is a video of Shelley making Dad laugh with a puppet.
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| This is a collage of family pictures in his room. At every visit he will ask me who is the person in the middle. I'll ask him who he thinks it is and he answers with a question, "Me?" |
This is a short video of Joyce taking Mom to a doctor's appointment:
