Wednesday, February 14, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
salem dining hall for the valentine dinner,we left to go there at4:45 and returned at :6:45.Mr dancy had a good
time and enjoyed the music played by members of the N.C symphony.Ilene Simmons
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
Get together,Mr Dancy had cake and coffee and enjoyed the music played by a harpist.We returned back to Mr Dancys around 2:45.later he watched tv and napped on and off.We are staying up later tonight to watch an Arnold
Swatzeneggar movie.He rested well last night ,had all of his meals and medications.Ilene Simmons
Monday, February 12, 2007
''Mr Dancys Evening''
Weekend.He ate his meal and had his medication.He had a nice quite evening.Ilene Simmons
Friday, February 09, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Morning''
Cathy.He had a shower and afterwards proceeded to get dressed and later a good breakfast.He had his medication
And is now watching tv.Ilene Simmons
Thursday, February 08, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Birthday Dinner''
Those born in the month of february.They served a nice dinner and had red velvet cake and wine.Mr Dancy sat
with his friends and seemed to have a nice time.He rested very well last night only getting up once.We went for a
walk this afternoon,afterwards Mr Dancy watched some tv.He had all of his meals and medications,all in all, a good
Day.Ilene Simmons
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
before lunch this morning,it was warm today ,He said he was looking forward to spring.Mr Dancy watched some tv
And we worked on a puzzle,later Mr Dancy listened to music and napped on and off.He had all of his meals and
Medications,all in all,a good day.Ilene Simmons
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
He seemed to enjoy the meal and conversing with friends.Later i prepared lunch and afterwards Mr Dancy watched
Tv for a while.Around 3:pm we walked over to the model home for a bible study,the lesson was on jonah and the whale,the way Kathy read the story was entertaining and informative ,i know Mr Dancy enjoyed the presentation.
He had all of his meals and medications and had a nice restful previous night.Ilene Simmons
Monday, February 05, 2007
"Mr Dancys' Evening"
He seemed to be in a happy mood.he watched tv and napped on and off. He had a nice quite evening.Ilene Simmons
Friday, February 02, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day"
said he felt a little slugish so we didnt do a lot of games today,just read some scripture.Mr Dancy watched tv between
naps.I believe he was tired because he was up several times last night,he said he wanted to know where everyone had
gone i explained to him that his family were either at work or at their own homes,he seemed to understand and went
back to bed,he slept until 7:35.He had all his meals and medications.Ilene Simmons
Thursday, February 01, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Snowy Day''
Watched out the kitchen window, as it snowed all day without accumalation.He has been resting at night and
seems well rested in the morning.He eats all of his meals and walks really well when we go out .He had all of his
medications and is doing fine.Ilene Simmons
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
Mr Dancy has been sleeping very well lately,getting up only once in the early morning hours to use the bathroom.
We played a game of checkers and read some scriptures later in the day.He had all of his meals and medications
for the day.Ilene Simmons
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
checkers and took an afternoon walk after it warmed up.He watched some tv sports and napped for a little while.He
Had all of his meals and medications.Ilene Simmons
Monday, January 29, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Evening"
chair to watch tv.He was very tired and took naps on and off.He had his medication and was ready for bed around
9:15.He had a nice quite evening.Ilene Simmons
Friday, January 26, 2007
"Mr Dancys' Day''
this morning and again this afternoon.He wanted to play some cards so i got those out, and we played.We also worked
on a puzzle and listened to music,later Mr Dancy watched a tennis game.He rested very well last night and seemed
Well rested this morning.He has a good appetite and eats all of his meals.He is doing very well.He had all of his
medications for the day .Ilene Simmons
Thursday, January 25, 2007
''Mr Dancy' Day''
chicken pie,peas ,carrots,stuffed peppers and chocolate ice cream,he ate everything.he had conversation with
some of the residents there.he had a nice lunch with cathy ,afterwards we went for a walk and read scriptures.mr
Dancy watched sports later in the evening.he had a very restful night and a good day.he had all of his meals and
medications.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
""Mr Dancys' Day''
walk and then it was time to prepare lunch.we worked some on a puzzle and played music.Mr Dancy watched tv for awhile.Mr Dancy has a good memory and can recall a lot about his childhood and family,he recalls a lot about his
time in New Orleans,he must haved loved it there.He is doing very well and has a good appetite.it has been a good
Day.he had all of his medications and meals.Ilene Simmons
''Mr Dancys' Day''
not publish,i dont know, it could have been the server,sometimes that happens. however Mr dancy is doing fine.He
had a nice quite day yesterday 1/24/07.He had all of his meals and medications and is doing very well.Ilene Simmons
Monday, January 22, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
medications.After Supper mr Dancy retired to his favorite chair to watch tv.He had a good evening.Ilene Simmons
Dad's Weekend
Bettie watched Dad on Saturday so I could go to exercise class. When I got back home Dad was already asleep at 8 p.m.
On Sunday we went to church. Afterwards we had the buffet at the dining hall. Dad was mad when I suggested he eat his dessert. So I decided it was time to leave. We spent the afternoon watching football and playing miniature bowling with Collin at my house. Then a pizza dinner and cake for dessert.
Dad got up about two in the morning and came to my room. He talked about something and finally went back to bed.
Today Dad goes to Dr. Southard, dermatologist to check his skin for pre-cancerous growths. Then to Senior Services for the day.
Friday, January 19, 2007
''Mr Dancys ' Day''
worked with a word game.He slept throughout the night and seemed well rested this morning.He had all of his meals
And medications.He had a good day.Ilene Simmons
Thursday, January 18, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Snowy Day''
Mr Dancy was up several times last night,he was confused about the time,i explained to him that it was in the am,he
stated that he should be in bed,after the second time getting up he wanted to go to the bathroom afterwards he went
back to sleep the rest of the morning until 7:30 am.We worked some on the puzzle and played the key board.Mr Dancy had all of his meals and medications. A good day.Ilene Simmons
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
""Mr Dancys' Day''
Cathy, also.Mr Dancy was very alert and talkative this evening,he talked a lot about childhood and his family.He played the keyboard this evening and we worked some on the puzzle.He rested very well last night,sleeping through-
out the night.he had all of his meals and medications,all in all,a very good day.Ilene Simmons
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
"'Dancys' Day''
tv,since he was up i gave him his shower and prepared his breakfast afterwards.We went for a walk after lunch and
he watched some sports programs on tv.Later we worked on the puzzle.He had all of his meals and medications and
had a nice quite day.Ilene Simmons
Monday, January 15, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
meal,had his medications and is still watching tv.seemed to have a relaxing evening.Ilene Simmons
Jason and Ashley and Collin Visit Dad
Collin kept running around the sofa where Dad was sitting (Dad was enjoying the Imaginary Friends on the Cartoon Channel), so finally when he climbed over Dad, he grabbed him and started tickling Collin. Collin got off and proclamed that "he was ticklish". Anyway he later "poked" Dad in the face and Dad lifted his legs and tripped Collin. Collin and Dad seemed to enjoy it!
On Sunday my friend Ann watched Dad. Dad explained how he was trying to keep the Red Chritmas plant alive until Valentines Day. (a challenge sometimes).
Dad woke up early and took off his wet clothes and sat in the chair. The night before he had taken off his briefs and replaced them with two pairs of boxer shorts.
Friday, January 12, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons
''Mr Dancys' Day''
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons
''Mr Dancys' Day''
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons
''Mr Dancys' Day''
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons
Thursday, January 11, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
them but he did and they helped him with the constipation.I noticed that late at night when the furnace came on he
would cough a lot.so i called the maintenance man and he came and changed the filters,they looked as though they had not been changed in awhile.I know he will rest better.He had all of his meals and medications.We went for a
walk this afternoon,i wanted to wait until it was warmer outside.Later he watched some sports and we played some songs on my key board.He had a good day.Ilene Simmons
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
"Mr Dancys' day''
He slept through out the night and seemed well rested this morning.We went for a walk this afternoon,i waited until
it was warmer before going out.We read some scripture and mr Dancy watched sports for awhile ,he seemed more
tired today and took naps on and off.He had all of his medcations and had a pleasant day.The coughing and congestion are steadily improving.Ilene Simmons
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
fine.I prepared chicken soup, gave him plenty of fluids.Its very cold here today so, i didnt take him out.He had all his
meals and medications for the day.I know he will be feeling much better very soon.He was up once last night,i took
him to the bathroom and gave him something to drink and he went back to bed.Ilene Simmons
Monday, January 08, 2007
Dad's Weekend
We went to church on Sunday. Dad was able to walk down the aisle just holding my arm and his cane. As we were leaving he was able to maneuver up the aisle by himself.
Today Dad went to the podiatrist to have his toes trimmed. Sometimes, when the doctor touches his big toes he starts to cry out, then he begins to laugh a bit. Not sure if it hurts or just scares him or both. The podiatrist told Dad to just relax his feet, but Dad keeps wanted to wiggle his feet a little.
We then went to Senior Services for the day. They made gingerbread cookies; he brought back a couple. When we left Dad wanted to make sure that all the ladies who were still there (about three) were "taken care of".
''Mr Dancys' Evening''
to watch some television.He seemed very tired so I ask him if he wanted to go to bed and he answered yes,so he went
to bed around 9:30.Ilene Simmons
Friday, January 05, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
drink while he watched tv for awhile,he went back to bed and slept until 7:30. He had all of his meals........ and medications.Ilene Simmons
Thursday, January 04, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
Mr Dancy watched the classic football games with Jim Brown and Jim Kelly,he also listened to music.We worked a
word game and went over some of the books on the shelf.Mr Dancy had all of his medications and meals and had a
nice lunch with cathy.He slept well last night and did not get up.Ilene Simmons
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
''Mr Dancys' Day''
Mr Dancy watched a sports game and listened to music.We looked at cards and pictures. I read some scriptures and
He seemed to like the reading from the bible. Mr Dancy did not rest well last night he was up several times,I took him
to the bathroom each time and gave him something to drink,he went to bed afterwards. He had all of his medications
and meals for the day and is now watching tv. ilene simmons
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
'' After New Years Day''
around 11:pm. He had a good supper tonight and had all of his medications this evening.He is enjoying the football
games and has been awake watching the entire game. Ilene Simmons
Friday, December 29, 2006
''Mr Dancys' Day."
walk this morning and in the afternoon. Mr Dancy was up several times last night,i took him to
the bathroom and later gave him something to drink,he seemed fine and was agreeable to going
back to bed where he rested until 7:30 am. he didnt want to participate in any games however
i pulled them out anyway.sometimes he is receptive and sometimes he does not want to engage
in that particular activity. He watched sports on tv and listened to music later in the afternoon.
Ilene Simmons
Thursday, December 28, 2006
''Mr Dancys' Day''
music and later watched a baseball game and a boxing match. It was such a nice day that we
went for a walk this afternoon. This morning around 3:am Mr Dancy got up and walked around
I asked him did he want to go to the bathroom and he answered yes. After going to the bathroom he seemed fine and wanted to go back to bed. He slept until 7:45,he seemed well rested. He had all his meals and medications . All in all, he had a good day. Ilene Simmons
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
''Mr Dancys' Day''
meals. Ilene Simmons
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
''Day after Christmas''
his evening meds. He slept in the chair and appeared very tired.Around 9:30 i helped him get
ready for bed.Ilene Simmons
Dad's Christmas
On Christmas morning, Dad and I went to Mass, then had a meal at the dining hall. Then we went to my house for a lazy afternoon.
Today we will go to my house to help clean up and make some clam chowder.
Dad did okay this weekend, but last night he got up and spent quite some time snoozing in the easy chair. (I don't think he slept much in his own bed).
Friday, December 22, 2006
''Mr Dancys' Day''
and afterwards we played bingo,he seemed to enjoy the day.he had all of his meals and ........
medications he said he was looking forward to christmas.he has been resting very well at night.
ilene simmons
Thursday, December 21, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
ilene simmons
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
even though it was chilly.''we worked on a word game afterwards and read some scriptures.
he watched a football game for awhile and listened to music in the afternoon.he had all of his meals and medications and seemed to have a good day.ilene simmons
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
this morning,mr Dancy had lunch around 12:pm.we looked at past christmas cards and family
pictures.he said he was looking forward to christmas.he had all of his meals and medications.he
has been in a very happy mood.ilene simmons
Monday, December 18, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
Dancys home around 4:35.i called his meal in,and picked it up around 5:30.he had a good supper
and took his medication.he is still watching tv.ilene simmons
Friday, December 15, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
of checkers looked through magazines.the nurse came this afternoon ,she gave mr Dancy his
b-12 shot and examined him, she said he was doing good ,no swelling in ankles.he had all of his
medications and meals,he also watched a football game ,this afternoon.ilene simmons
Thursday, December 14, 2006
''The Christmas Party''
at 5:pm i got mr Dancy dressed and took him to the christmas party at the salem dining hall.
he made two new friends who wanted to visit with him sometime.he had a good supper...beef
tenderloin,aspargus,red cabbage,tossed salad,and a glass of wine and water.also desert.carolers
came to sing holiday songs dressed in late 1800 clothing.mr Dancy enjoyed the songs.he had a
really good day.ilene simmons
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
Dancy identified family pictures today and we played bingo .mr Dancy watches either a football
or basketball game in the evening. he had a good supper this afternoon and had all his meds.he
rested well last night.ilene simmons
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
''mr Dancys day''
very well last night.he was up several times,he went to the front door i heard him, and i talked
to him a few minutes and gave him something to drink.he sat up awhile and went back to bed.
his left eye was red this morning,cathy told me to put a warm compress on the eye or use eye
drops.i wanted to get permission from cathy before using eye drops.i used the eye drops and his eye looks a lot better.we went for a walk today and played a game of checkers.i will continue
to monitor him at night and stay alert for his continued safety.ilene simmons
Monday, December 11, 2006
'mr Dancys evening'
watched tv and prepared for bed around 10:pm.ilene simmons
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Football Saturday
However, I did take time out every once in a while to set up a new jigsaw puzzle.
Then Dad and I had a nice meal at the Dining Hall. Dad had trout, I had the lamb chops. Dad also had one glass of wine, as did I. (I told the staff 1/2 glass for Dad but they gave him a whole glass). Several ladies stopped by and said hello. The piano lady also played some Xmas tunes.
Afterwards, I sat for awhile and then proceeded to eat more food, including chocolate, cookies, crackers with butter, etc. I was quite full, but had to eat every bit of chocolate in the house. When Dad looked at me funny, I offered him some crackers as well, plus the ends from his lunch-time sandwich. Luckily, my main chocolate stash is at my home; I will try to hide it well and hope my short term memory does not come back before Christmas!
Dad spent the night in the chair--I woke up early in the am and got him to the bathroom and into the bed.
Then today we had a nice breakfast. Bettie will come by today to watch Dad this afternoon and evening. I will go to church, run, then my Book Club in the early evening.
Friday, December 08, 2006
''mr Dancys' day.''
identified family pictures.all in all 'he had a good day.ilene simmons
Thursday, December 07, 2006
mr Dancys' day'
it wasnt too cold so we went for a walk.he watched a game this afternoon and had supper and
the last medication for the day.we read some scriptures from psalms,he said he enjoyed hearing
the psalms read.it was a good day.ilene simmons
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
''mr Dancys' day'
happier spirits tonight.ilene simmons
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
Friday, December 01, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
identified pictures and participated in a word game.he had all of his medications and meals.the nurse came by
this afternoon,she checked his bp' and it was good ,lower than before.he is in good spirit and doing very well.
ilene simmons
Thursday, November 30, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
the people there new mr Dancy and welcomed him back.he enjoyed the dinner,he had cheese and crackers
and a glass of wine.for supper he had shrimp and pasta,broccoli,rolls, and coffee,red velvet cake.the piano
player was playing tunes from the forties and fifties and christmas songs,i believe he had a good time,he made
light conversation with the people at the table,it was nice to see him laugh and have a nice time.
ilene simmons
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
and war shows.he seems to be doing well.ilene simmons
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
a game of checkers identified pictures and mr Dancy listened to music and relaxed the rest of the evening.
ilene simmons
Monday, November 27, 2006
''mr Dancys' evening''
night.ilene simmons
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Dad - Nov. 24, 2006
We will have leftovers from the restaurant for dinner. I think Dad should sleep well tonight - he was up late watching "Titanic" last night, and then got up at 6 am.
It has been nice to be with Cathy and Dad this weekend, and to meet Ilene. Love, Jennie
Friday, November 24, 2006
''mr Dancys' day after thanksgiving''
very happy i could tell.he said that he enjoyed thanksgiviing dinner and being with family.today we took a
walk ,mr Dancy enjoyed the country music show on tv.it was a quite day.ilene simmons
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Thanksgiving Day
Jason enjoyed flirting with the staff. Ruth Woodard came up and said she would attend the service on Dec. 4.
We are now snoozing in front of the TV watching Gromit and Wallace Cure of the Were-Rabbit.
Suzie and Jacob will join us later for some dessert after their other turkey dinner at his Mom's. Suzie will pick up Jennie later from the airport.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
we put a christmas puzzle together today and played a word game.mr Dancy is doing very well.he had all his
meals and medication.ilene simmons
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
enjoyed that very much,he participated 100%.he ate all of his meals,snacks and medication.ilene simmons
Monday, November 20, 2006
''mr Dancys' evening''
relax and watch tv.i will get him ready for bed around 10:oo or when he is ready for bed.it has been a quite
evening.ilene simmons
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Saturday November 18, 2006
This morning he had the covers drawn over his head. Bettie will be coming in around nine to watch him for a few hours while I go to my exercise class.
It is a real comfort for me to have Dad for company during this lonely time!
Friday, November 17, 2006
''mr Dancys' day''
but in good spirit.we went for a walk this morning,he enjoys his morning walk. he identifys the family pictures.
i write down words for him to read, he does well.he talked a little today,the nurse came by for a visit,she gave
him his b-12 shot he went to sleep afterward.ilene simmons
Thursday, November 16, 2006
''mr Dancys day''
(catherine victorian house'' most of the morning,we usually go for a walk before lunch,it was raining this
morning so we waited until it was sunny.mr Dancy identifys the family pictures,he likes to do that.i keep him
active most of the time,i try not to overwhelm him,i know when he wants his space.he is a nice man and easy
to work with.he is doing well.ilene simmons
''mr dancys day''
published. if you get this message 11/16/06,the message for 11/15/06/ reads as follows... mr Dancy had a
very relaxing day,he worked with me on a puzzle and played dominos.he is talking more and seems alert.i
would like to do more outings with him such as lunch out,going shopping and let him make purchases,please
let me know if you all are agreeable.thanks ilene simmons
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
mr dancys' day
he says he doesnt like snow but is looking forward to christmas.i hope you dont get this message twice,if so
there was some problem with the service.everything is going great .ilene simmons
mr dancys' day
he says he doesnt like snow but is looking forward to christmas.i hope you dont get this message twice,if so
there was some problem with the service.everything is going great .ilene simmons
''mr Dancys day''
pictures and talked about being a captain,he's talking a little more each day.he says he doesn' t like snow,but
looking forward to christmas .ilene simmons
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
mr Dancys day.
and played bingo.he is doing very well,ilene simmons
Monday, November 13, 2006
the kitchen to eat,he had pizza,tossed salad and juice and meds.he will watch tv after dinner until he says he
wants to sleep.its been a quite evening.ilene s
Friday, November 10, 2006
Friday, October 13, 2006
Friday, September 08, 2006
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Dad doesn't say much about Mom, except he wishes he could have been there to help her from falling!
Monday, March 27, 2006
First, we picked up Dad, who was very happy to see us, and was telling the nurse about us. When I told him Mom had fallen and was in the hospital, it confused him, and he said, "No, she was walking around here."
At the bowling alley, we had a great time with Rick, Beth, Yenna, Aida, Katherine, Ellie, Suzie and Jacob. (For the record, Cathy beat Jennie once, and Jennie beat Cathy once.) Cathy made a fabulous cake for Faye with green icing and plastic geckos. Faye enjoyed bowling with her cousins and telling everyone about her pets. Dad also enjoyed the outing, and sat right up front analyzing everyone's technique. He was quite good at that. We all had pizza and drinks in addition to cake and ice cream.
After the party, we went back to the hospital. Mom was watching the tv, but was under the morphine influence, I think, with a little confusion. Also, she had not eaten much, if any lunch. They brought her dinner, and she didn't want to eat any of that, but drank the milk when I offered it. Shortly after, they came to take her to the MRI, and I got them to give her more meds first, as she was saying she needed more. She was very worried about the transfer to the gurney, but said it was not as painful as the last time.
We went back to Mom's house, and we cooked a quick dinner of spaghetti, bread and salad. Dad ate well, but complained that we should not have had salad with spaghetti, but something else like beans. While still at the table, we somehow got on the topic of when Dad was on the U.S.S. Northhampton and it was hit by torpedoes and he ended up in the water. He talked about it a bit, said he had not been in the water too much, maybe 6 hours or so, using inflation devices (not rafts - except for the injured). About 100 men died. I asked him where he was when they got hit, and he said "the highest point in the ship - the foremast." He was working with radar, etc. at the time, he said.
Jason joined us for dinner, and he, Russ, and Faye went off to play in the computer room. Jason said he also does some work with the AutoCAD like Russ. Dad and I played cribbage, and he was beating me until Russ came to give him advice (Dad seems to want advice if someone else is standing there, otherwise he just does it himself). After Russ left, Dad was able to come from behind and beat me. HA! When Cathy said she needed to take him back to the living center, he didn't want to leave, and asked why he couldn't just sleep here. Cathy told him they had his medicine, and we assured him that he needed to take it, so then he left with her.
Love, Jennie
Friday, February 17, 2006
Jennie
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Afterwards I drove up to Pilot Mountain in a Chevy Malibu that I was using because my car was being worked on. The weather was not too cold, but it was colder than I thought, so we didn't' dawdle as we ate the cheese and crackers, liver pate, etc. The picnic area was about 100 yards from the parking lot, but Dad navigated it well with his walker, because it was asphalt. Mom had more trouble, and wanted to lie down a bit before she walked down.
When we were about to leave, Dad asked to use the restroom. I pointed towards the building across the parking lot. But Dad must have thought I meant the corner of the shelter, where he went and relieved himself! Luckily, there wasn't anyone around. Oh well. He really DOES take directions literally.
Also a few weeks back when we were sitting in the living area, Marion was walking around touching people, especially Mr. Cranfill. He didn't say anything but a few minutes later he got up and was walking around in an angry state. Dad was watching intently, even though previously he had been in a sleepy state. He mentioned that he was asked not to "interfere" even though I knew he wanted to do "something."
Yesterday, when she got a bit annoying, Dad "clapped loudly". The other man told her to "touch Cranfill", he thinks its funny. I noticed she was wearing an "apron", with beads and other tactile things on it, to help her. They were also playing music from the '40s, "boogie Woogy Bugle Boy from Company C", (and the TV was not playing for a change). Mom had to ask them to change the tape, as it kept playing this song over and over.
Anyway, it was an okay visit all around
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Dad was over for dinner. He was quiet mostly, but out of the blue he said I should not go in the water, that I would catch a cold. Not sure if he was getting me mixed up with Mom who goes to warm water exercise 3x a week.
He seemed okay, except that he needed to wipe his behind. I mentioned that I had some wet wipes in the bathroom, but he didn't get up.
Last week he took Jason's jacket home. He had it on when I went to get it a couple of days later. I couldn't convince Jason to pick it up himself, but Jason did pick out an old jacket to replace it. Dad was sitting on the couch and it was hard for me to take off the bigger jacket and put on the lighter one, because he seemed a little cold. (It was warm to me, but he had been snoozing, and that was making him a little chilled).
Anyway it was nice meeting Karen, a new activity person, who says that Alzheimer's disease is her "life", that she often goes home at night and looks up new information about it. She mentioned that she might want to do an activity involving postcards and asked us to give some if we had any. Also any ideas that we think for activities. She explained a lot of things, like try not to get offended that the residents were doing "childlike" activities. It was also nice to see all the relatives of people there.
(Homestead Hills was bought out by a new company. They plan to put in some apartments, new fitness areas, etc in the Homestead Hills section).
Friday, January 27, 2006
Here is new schedule presented at the support group last night at Homestead. They plan on having support groups each month with speakers, etc. There is new activity lady who seems enthusiastic about activities for "lifescenes" at Homestead. Each cluster is for a different level, but no one is excluded from an activity.
Daily Activity Schedule
6:00 am - 8:00 am Toileting, combing hair, brushing teeth, dressing getting ready for breakfast
8:00 am - 9:00 am Eating Breakfast; after break- fast, personal hygiene (ie: brushing teeth and/or dentures in bathroom, toileting, washing hands, etc. ..)
9:30 am - 10:00 am * * Cluster Activities:
Cluster # 1 -Current Events
Cluster #2 -Folding & Sorting Laundry
Cluster #3 -Ball Toss
10:00 am - 11:00 am Snack Time in the Dining Room
11:00 am- 11:30 am * * Cluster Activities:
Cluster # 1 -Baking Bread
Cluster #2 -Listening and Sing- a-long to Music
Cluster #3 -Ring Toss
11:30 am- 12:00 am Getting Ready for Lunch
12:00 am - 1:00 pm Lunch Time
1:00 pm- 2:00 pm After Lunch, Personal Hygiene (ie: toileting, brushing teeth, nap time, etc. ...)
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Snack Time in the Dining Room & Toileting
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm **Cluster Activities:
Cluster #1 -Art Fun
Cluster #2 -Men's Club
Cluster #3 -Basketball Toss
3:30 pm –4:00 pm * * Cluster Activities:
Cluster #1 -Sorting Time
Cluster #2 -Parachutes n' Music
Cluster #3 -Pretty Nails
4:00 pm - 4:30 pm Mail Call
4:30 pm - 5:00 pm Getting Ready for Dinner
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Dinner Time
6:00 pm - -7:00 pm After Dinner, Personal Hygiene (ie: toileting and/or bathing)
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Evening Activity- -Lotion applied to hands and/or feet -Listening to Music -ending with Evening Snack and to bed.
** Cluster Activities -will change daily.
ALL ACTIVITIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
I noticed that Dad looked like he hadn't shaved for a few days, and also that his fingernails were long. Mom brought the razor to her house so he could shave there, and I mentioned the fingernails when I brought him home that night.
At Mom's house, he relaxed. Overall, he seems pretty good, and doing less "rambling" than what I recall since last Summer. He does need "direction", but is still able, with verbal prompting, to do what you say...go to the bathroom, pull up pants, eat his dinner. I put grapes and water in front of him and he went for them right away. He seemed to enjoy watching the television during the afternoon (golf), with little or no napping. We played a game of Scrabble after dinner and a couple of times he found words on his own, but then needed my prompting for putting on the board. He also kept wanting to use his "cookie" as the letter "s" on the board. After each play, he seemed to want to make another play with the remaining letters on his tray, but I would tell him it was my turn and to get more letters and then I would ask him how many more letters he needed to make 7...he would figure it and pull the right letters each time.
Today, I went over around 3pm. When I arrived, Dad was sitting in the TV room, and there was another lady cuddled up next to him, eating snacks with him I think. He got up and followed me to his room. Mom got a new TV for her bedroom (larger to help see better due to her macular degeneration), so I took her old TV to Dad's room, if not for him, but also for when he has visitors. I also attempted to organize Dad's clothing, as his closet and drawers were in a bit of disarray, and it seems there are items that don't belong to him, as well as he is missing his own items. I've added some labels, and also did an inventory that I will post in the closet with the hope that the workers will continue to follow the organization.
I met two of the workers, La Shawn and another gal whose name I can't remember! She commented on how "committed" Mom is to come every day, and loves to see the families. She trimmed Dad's nails and also helped him in the bathroom as I was organizing the closet. Dad had wet his diaper, so needed a new one, and then had a bowel movement on the toilet, for which I suggested she use a wet wipe to ensure he was cleaned up. (Is this too much information?)
Tonight I will take Mom and Dad over to Cathy's house for a football playoff party. Beau will also be there.
My overall observation is that Dad seems calm, agreeable, and responds appropriately, for the most part, to comments and statements. I haven't got into any deep conversation with him, and he doesn't join in on conversations between Mom and me. He is quiet, but content, from what I can tell.
I am here until Tuesday the 24th. Love, Barb
Thursday, January 12, 2006
I put together a jigsaw puzzle that depicted the world during World War II. I thought it might spark some memories. He didn't say much but seemed to enjoy watching me put it together!
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
The next day, I called Cathy's house, and spoke to him again. He was enjoying the good food and the presents, and that he didn't deserve it all (or something to that effect). He was clearly in a good mood.
Love to all,
Jennie
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Dad is doing okay though twice recently he put his pants on backwards, (they are sweat pants and dont' have zippers, though one has a pocket). Suzie joked that Dad was wearing "Zubu" pants, which are cool!
Mom still can not read normal print, but she can read the large print books I think and watch TV. One of her friends has had the operations five times in the last year. She will change the font on her computer to larger.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
We had cake on Sunday (two days earlier) at my house. It was a yellow cake with fudge filling and chocolate butter cream icing. Also, barbecue pork, corn, and spinach souffle.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Not much going on lately. We mostly play Dominos and sit. Dad is quiet most of the time.
When Dad comes over we mostly watch the golf on TV. He always ask what he should do when we sit down to eat, not sure why he asks.
Next week Dad will be going to dermatologist again. He usually has one or two spots that need to be "frozen". It makes me wonder if I will be doing the same thing in 30 years!
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
The last few times Dad has eaten at my house, he has been eating very slowly. Uusally he sits at the table for at least 15 minutes later than Mom and I.
He seems to enjoy watching the golf on TV when he visits. (He doesn't get to watch it at the home.)
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Dad was angry at Marion though. She comes up a lot and touches people. She came up to Mom and tried to touch here and this time Dad grabbed her arm and said to go away. Mom said Charley don't grab at her. She walked away though. Usually if you ignore her she does not come up. Also Mom or I sometimes take her hand and lead her to the other living area. It is difficult.
Last week she kept touching another man and he finally slapped her and the nurses said not to slap her, she doesn't know what she is doing, just move away, and he was angry because he didn't see why he had to move away he liked sitting where he was!
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Thursday, June 02, 2005
As a side note, from the voices in the background, it sounded like he was either in a wheelchair, or coming over to the phone and getting in a chair of some sort. He was in his room when I called, and they went and got him.
Monday, May 09, 2005
I really appreciate that Cathy is able to keep up with having Mom and Dad over for dinner each Sunday. It's a very nice tradition.
Friday, April 15, 2005
But he is still pleasant to be around. Sometimes I want to cry though, for what I miss about him that is gone, for what is to come (not sure), and for my own lonliness.
It is better that I be around him than be at home where I feel alone and useless.
I just have to pray for the strength to get through each day!
Thursday, April 14, 2005
We played cribbage again. We stayed even most of the game. It is easier than talking sometimes.
Dad seems okay most of the time, he just doesn't make much sense when he talks. Through all the confusion I can understand his feelings--sometimes frustrated, sometimes worried, sometimes confused.