Got a phone call this evening from Anna at Emerald Isle. She expressed some concern that Dad has been having an unusual cough this week. They also noticed a couple of times when he was getting up and/or getting changed, that he even sounded short of breath. Haydee told me when she saw Dad on Thursday, his voice was hoarse and she thought perhaps he might be getting sick. She also mentioned that Dad seems to cough after drinking, and I got the same report from other caregivers there, though this seems to be an ongoing issue.
My immediate concern was perhaps he had aspirated, and might have a pneumonia. I went over there (just returned), and he sounded good and looked good. I didn't see any of the symptoms that were mentioned, though they told me it was only occasional. We did get him up to walk to see if it might spur the cough, but it didn't. I didn't notice any wheezing or distress with Dad at all. I asked him to breathe deep, putting my hand on his back, but he didn't really take much of a deep breath. When I asked him a few times how he was feeling, each time was "I'm feeling pretty good!" or "feel fine".
We agreed to continue watching him over the weekend, and then call the doctor on Monday for an appointment as needed.
On another note, Jennie was here this week and did the bulk of the work to complete Dad's taxes. We got them filed today...he will get $1900 from the Feds, and owes $672 to California.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Friday, January 07, 2011
Doing well
With holidays behind and kids back to school, finally got some time to have a longer visit with Dad. Unfortunately he was just sitting down to dinner (4:45!) so he was quite focused on that. He was having a nice looking healthy salad and pizza. He did talk to me a little bit, which was sort of an accomplishment because he usually won't respond at all while he is eating.
Reports from Haydee and Anna continued to be good...Dad walking stronger, talking a lot. He still looks great and seems quite content.
Reports from Haydee and Anna continued to be good...Dad walking stronger, talking a lot. He still looks great and seems quite content.
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Doing well
Sorry for infrequent blogs of late--busy prepping for my Special Children's League Fundraiser and also trip to NY to visit Melissa and new baby.
Dad has been doing the same...still walking, eating well, some days more talkative than others. Today when I went to visit him, his speech was strained, though Haydee said that earlier in the day he was speaking well. He seemed stuck on a phrase as I spoke to him, perhaps something he heard on television--can't recall it exactly, had the number 4 in it. I brought out some photos and he still kept repeating the phrase, until I got to a photo of Mom and mentioned it had been four years since she had died. He then said "I wish she didn't leave." Continued to show the pictures, pointing out photos of granddaughter Suzie and that she was expecting her 2nd child.
Anna has reported that all is well with Dad. She and Al said they wished that the other residents would eat like Charlie! The new gentleman that had recently moved in unfortunately died this morning (found dead in his bed at wake-up.)
Got a letter from Emerald Isle management that they are increasing the cost per month from $4000 to $4200 "due to rising staffing and operational costs" effective January 1, 2011. For now, I am still utilizing Anna and Haydee, each an extra 8 hours/week ($15/hour) to give Dad more individualized attention, including exercise and social interaction. I think having Anna for 4 hours on 2 days, secures some extra attention and good will from all the Emerald Isle caregivers (Anna, Al & Juana) on the other days of the week as well. I think Haydee, who is so conscientious, pleasant and friendly, offers Dad a regular special visitor that I hope and think he enjoys. Let me know if you have some other thoughts.
Dad has been doing the same...still walking, eating well, some days more talkative than others. Today when I went to visit him, his speech was strained, though Haydee said that earlier in the day he was speaking well. He seemed stuck on a phrase as I spoke to him, perhaps something he heard on television--can't recall it exactly, had the number 4 in it. I brought out some photos and he still kept repeating the phrase, until I got to a photo of Mom and mentioned it had been four years since she had died. He then said "I wish she didn't leave." Continued to show the pictures, pointing out photos of granddaughter Suzie and that she was expecting her 2nd child.
Anna has reported that all is well with Dad. She and Al said they wished that the other residents would eat like Charlie! The new gentleman that had recently moved in unfortunately died this morning (found dead in his bed at wake-up.)
Got a letter from Emerald Isle management that they are increasing the cost per month from $4000 to $4200 "due to rising staffing and operational costs" effective January 1, 2011. For now, I am still utilizing Anna and Haydee, each an extra 8 hours/week ($15/hour) to give Dad more individualized attention, including exercise and social interaction. I think having Anna for 4 hours on 2 days, secures some extra attention and good will from all the Emerald Isle caregivers (Anna, Al & Juana) on the other days of the week as well. I think Haydee, who is so conscientious, pleasant and friendly, offers Dad a regular special visitor that I hope and think he enjoys. Let me know if you have some other thoughts.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Friday evening
I went to visit Dad this past friday evening. He had finished dinner and was in his bed watching TV. I have to say, he just looked so content and comfortable. His face just looked fantastic. Wish I'd had a camera...will try to remember next time. As soon as I arrived I asked how he was doing and he said in a very pleasant voice, "just great." We conversed for a little while...his voice was strong, and the context of his statements were there, but the sentences as a whole were sort of gibberish. Anna reported that Dad had been doing well all day, walking strong, and talking a lot. She used the term "alert" to describe it.
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Getting better
Ryland was out of school early yesterday, so he and I stopped by to check in on Grandpa. He seems to be getting better. He was in his room on the recliner watching TV. They are still keeping the residents mostly separated to avoid contagion.
Dad said he recognized me, and he seemed to stare at Ryland for a bit. He said he was doing 'great.' Tried to get him to tell us about his cross country days, sharing Ryland's current news, but he didn't elaborate.
Anna reported that Dad is now starting to show some of what he used to do well before the surgery where he starts to get up on his own, saying he has to do something, so they are keeping a close eye on him. He continues to take walks during the day, eat and sleep well.
Dad said he recognized me, and he seemed to stare at Ryland for a bit. He said he was doing 'great.' Tried to get him to tell us about his cross country days, sharing Ryland's current news, but he didn't elaborate.
Anna reported that Dad is now starting to show some of what he used to do well before the surgery where he starts to get up on his own, saying he has to do something, so they are keeping a close eye on him. He continues to take walks during the day, eat and sleep well.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Catching a cold
Got a call from Anna today that Dad seemed to be catching a cold. I stopped by a little while ago to visit for a bit. He was quite sleepy. He was in his room in the recliner watching TV, but very dozy. They are trying to keep the residents separated to help allay sharing of the virus. Anna said he had a slight fever in the morning (99) and that his voice was hoarse, occasional coughing. I told her she could give him Tylenol which she had done. He seemed fairly comfortable, though pale when I saw him. She is helping him eat and drink to ensure maintaining hydration. We're having a little heat wave...the change in weather seems to be affecting people...Paul had a bad cold last week.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Visit
Went to visit Dad today...lately have only been able to squeeze in brief visits, but today I had a little more time. I showed him the postcard that Cathy sent him, and he was able to read some of it on his own. I asked him if he wanted to go for a walk, so we did. We walked inside the house as he said he didn't want to go outside. He is slow, but methodical. Took a break to sit in the wheelchair then chatted some more. After awhile, took another walk back to the recliner, where he seemed happy to rest for awhile. All reports from the caregivers are good. His appetite is still good...when I'm there during a meal he won't even look up from the plate to respond! Overall wasn't very talkative today, but looked good and when I asked how he was doing he said "i'm doing fine!" They are expecting a new roommate next week...a gentleman!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Doctor's Appt
Today I took Dad to a physical check-up with Dr. Gee. Anna was working, so she traveled with us to assist with the transfers. Dad had to skip breakfast for the blood work so he was a bit lethargic. He complained when he got "stuck" for the blood test, but after I gave him the snack I brought for him, and he had some juice, he seemed to be happier and woke up a bit. He did well getting in the car for the ride home, and after we got back, he walked from the driveway into the house. He doesn't seem to be experiencing any leg pain when walking.
Dr. Gee said Dad looks good. We made an attempt, but were unable to get Dad up onto the table, so the doctor did his checkup with Dad in the wheelchair. His BP was 122/66, right ear a little waxy, no wheezing. These are his current meds:
Aspirin 81mg, 1x day
Amlodopine 5mg, 1x day (blood pressure med)
Metoprolol 50mg, 1x day
Aricept 10mg 1x day
Namenda 10mg 2x day
Prozac 10mg 2x day
Lisinopril 5mg 1x day (bp and heart med. Prescribed by Dr. Lai in hospital)
Senna Tablet 2x day
Colace 1x day
Anna told me that Dad is usually taking walks a couple of times a day now, making several "loops" through the halls in the house. She also said that for the past few days, except this morning, he was initiating getting out of bed in the morning, without them having to prompt him. In general, it sounds like there is still occasionally some complaining with this morning get up routine, but nothing unmanageable. Apparently he has been sleeping well, and has made no attempts to get up in the middle of the night, except once when they heard him, and he needed to have a bowel movement. Anna also said they still use the Hoyer Lift to get Dad into his bed at night, to get him placed properly and that he no longer complains about it.
Anna also said that Dad is very talkative, and talks to some of his housemates quite a bit. When I visited this past Sunday, they were celebrating one of the ladies' 101st birthdays! Perhaps there's something special in the water at that house....Dad is almost the baby. 105, 103, 101, 95, 94, 93.
Dr. Gee said Dad looks good. We made an attempt, but were unable to get Dad up onto the table, so the doctor did his checkup with Dad in the wheelchair. His BP was 122/66, right ear a little waxy, no wheezing. These are his current meds:
Aspirin 81mg, 1x day
Amlodopine 5mg, 1x day (blood pressure med)
Metoprolol 50mg, 1x day
Aricept 10mg 1x day
Namenda 10mg 2x day
Prozac 10mg 2x day
Lisinopril 5mg 1x day (bp and heart med. Prescribed by Dr. Lai in hospital)
Senna Tablet 2x day
Colace 1x day
Anna told me that Dad is usually taking walks a couple of times a day now, making several "loops" through the halls in the house. She also said that for the past few days, except this morning, he was initiating getting out of bed in the morning, without them having to prompt him. In general, it sounds like there is still occasionally some complaining with this morning get up routine, but nothing unmanageable. Apparently he has been sleeping well, and has made no attempts to get up in the middle of the night, except once when they heard him, and he needed to have a bowel movement. Anna also said they still use the Hoyer Lift to get Dad into his bed at night, to get him placed properly and that he no longer complains about it.
Anna also said that Dad is very talkative, and talks to some of his housemates quite a bit. When I visited this past Sunday, they were celebrating one of the ladies' 101st birthdays! Perhaps there's something special in the water at that house....Dad is almost the baby. 105, 103, 101, 95, 94, 93.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Friday
On Friday I stopped by for a visit with Dad. Reports for the week were good. They mentioned that he's actually been walking faster.
Dad seemed happy to see me and was responsive. Asked him if he wanted to go for a walk with me and he said yes and that he'd like to get the exercise. We got up and walked down the hall, out the front door, and then all the way around the side and to the back! We made one stop to sit and rest in the wheelchair. Once inside, it was time for dinner so we moved to sit at the table with the others. Seemed happy to be seated at that point and too tired to say goodbye!
At this point, I have cut one day for Anna---she is now working 3 mornings (M-W) instead of 4. Haydee is still scheduled for Tuesday afternoons (2.5 hours) and Thursday and Saturday mornings, though she has missed the past two Saturdays (sick one day, family conflict the other.)
Dad seemed happy to see me and was responsive. Asked him if he wanted to go for a walk with me and he said yes and that he'd like to get the exercise. We got up and walked down the hall, out the front door, and then all the way around the side and to the back! We made one stop to sit and rest in the wheelchair. Once inside, it was time for dinner so we moved to sit at the table with the others. Seemed happy to be seated at that point and too tired to say goodbye!
At this point, I have cut one day for Anna---she is now working 3 mornings (M-W) instead of 4. Haydee is still scheduled for Tuesday afternoons (2.5 hours) and Thursday and Saturday mornings, though she has missed the past two Saturdays (sick one day, family conflict the other.)
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Talked with Dad
I finally called Dad. He seemed upbeat. He didn't talk much but he said he was okay. It was nice to talk with him after such a long time. I hope to call more often in the future.
Saturday, July 03, 2010
Yesterday and Today
I stopped by briefly to see Dad yesterday and drop off a check for Anna. Reports were all positive that Dad had been doing well, getting daily walks, etc. Dad smiled and said Hello but seemed comfortable and a bit dozy on the couch.
This afternoon I stopped by again to see if Dad might want to go for a ride in my car and possibly come to my house. He was on the couch and we talked for awhile. I was asking about whether he wanted to get up, go for a ride, etc. He was talking a little bit soft spoken...was first saying, "I'm not sure if I like you or not, but you seem nice" then I said, "I'm your daughter, do you remember me" and he said "I'm starting to". Later asked him if he remembered my name and he said "Suzie". I said no I'm Barbara, and he kept saying "Barbrack". Eventually seemed willing to get up...when prompted, he started to reach for walker and did fairly well to adjust himself with just a little assistance pushing on his back...good news being that he showed no signs of resistance either, considering he was kind of slumped in the couch. He stood up and seemed to need to balance a little, but then eventually we walked into the hallway. During the walk he seemed to be saying a lot of "ohs" with his steps, but then I'd ask him if he felt OK and he said "yes" and wanted to continue. Eventually he asked to switch to the wheelchair and we took him outside beside my car.
Asked him if he wanted to go for a ride and he responded "let's just be quiet for a while," so instead we just sat outside...nice sunny day. Dylan was in the car and I pointed that out and I saw Dad looking in at Dylan. I told him "There's your grandson." After several times asking him if he wanted to go in the car, he never seemed interested enough, so we said "Good-bye"
May try again to see if he wants to go for a ride tomorrow, and perhaps come over to my house for the 4th holiday.
This afternoon I stopped by again to see if Dad might want to go for a ride in my car and possibly come to my house. He was on the couch and we talked for awhile. I was asking about whether he wanted to get up, go for a ride, etc. He was talking a little bit soft spoken...was first saying, "I'm not sure if I like you or not, but you seem nice" then I said, "I'm your daughter, do you remember me" and he said "I'm starting to". Later asked him if he remembered my name and he said "Suzie". I said no I'm Barbara, and he kept saying "Barbrack". Eventually seemed willing to get up...when prompted, he started to reach for walker and did fairly well to adjust himself with just a little assistance pushing on his back...good news being that he showed no signs of resistance either, considering he was kind of slumped in the couch. He stood up and seemed to need to balance a little, but then eventually we walked into the hallway. During the walk he seemed to be saying a lot of "ohs" with his steps, but then I'd ask him if he felt OK and he said "yes" and wanted to continue. Eventually he asked to switch to the wheelchair and we took him outside beside my car.
Asked him if he wanted to go for a ride and he responded "let's just be quiet for a while," so instead we just sat outside...nice sunny day. Dylan was in the car and I pointed that out and I saw Dad looking in at Dylan. I told him "There's your grandson." After several times asking him if he wanted to go in the car, he never seemed interested enough, so we said "Good-bye"
May try again to see if he wants to go for a ride tomorrow, and perhaps come over to my house for the 4th holiday.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
No news is good news?
Got no calls while on my trip regarding Dad. Had texted Haydee and she reported that Dad has been walking and doing well. Have only been able to check in with him briefly the past couple of days since my return. On Monday he gave me a big smile and hello when I saw him. He was a bit reluctant to move from the couch and started very slightly to do the "push backwards" and "hand grabbing" when we were prompting him to lean forward, but eventually did do so and then walked with me about halfway down the hall. Yesterday I was delivering some lotion and only had a minute....they had just started dinner and he was digging into a nice looking plate of roasted chicken and a broiled potato/carrot vegetable dish. Al and Juana reported that he had been quite awake and talkative during the day.
Dad's bed alarm mat arrived while I was gone and I gave that to them as well.
Dad's bed alarm mat arrived while I was gone and I gave that to them as well.
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
PT today
Dad was a bit grumpy at PT this morning. He was walking, but seemed to need a little more help getting up and was not very talkative. We thought we "smelled" something, so we realized we should take him to the bathroom. The trip was quite successful and afterwards he said he was feeling "much better." We wanted to see if he would get in the car again, and when we asked if he wanted to go for a ride he said Yes. We went outside and got him to the point where he was sitting on the seat but with his legs still hanging to the side...then he protested about getting in further asking "Why were we doing this?" Told him we thought that was what he wanted, but if he didn't want to, then fine....he easily lowered himself off the seat and that was it for the day.
After lunch, Haydee arrived, but she phoned me to say Dad was very sleepy. She left and returned later in the afternoon. She got him to walk down the hall, but again he was quite sleepy. It's been a gloomy, misty day here today...perhaps that contributed to his sleepiness.
THursday is Dad's last PT day with Lucinda...Haydee will be there so she will get a good set of instructions for follow through. Anna is doing great as well. Reminder that I'm leaving Thursday until the 20th, and extra caregivers will continue at least until my return. Lucinda said not to hesitate to call and request more PT if we see any downturn.
After lunch, Haydee arrived, but she phoned me to say Dad was very sleepy. She left and returned later in the afternoon. She got him to walk down the hall, but again he was quite sleepy. It's been a gloomy, misty day here today...perhaps that contributed to his sleepiness.
THursday is Dad's last PT day with Lucinda...Haydee will be there so she will get a good set of instructions for follow through. Anna is doing great as well. Reminder that I'm leaving Thursday until the 20th, and extra caregivers will continue at least until my return. Lucinda said not to hesitate to call and request more PT if we see any downturn.
Friday, June 04, 2010
Car and doctor's appt
Wednesday during PT we had a bit more success getting Dad into my car in the 2nd row. THe rest of the session went fine as well. Lucinda commented that it "gives her chills" to think about the progress Dad has made.
I arranged for Anna to be able to come with me to Dad's doctor's appt today to help getting Dad in/out of car. It worked out! He seems to get better each time. He still goes into a little bit of the "fear mode" when being asked to come forward (leaning forward to get out of seat) but handled it better with each successive attempt. Note that getting Dad into the car does require someone (in our case Anna) pulling up on his pants from behind to help lift him onto the seat. Once on the seat, Dad participates in adjusting his feet, body to sit in the seat.
At appointment, doctor had requested x-rays, but I asked him if they were needed---mentioned how difficult it was to get him on x-ray table on prior visit. After checking the prior xrays and examining him (he picked up Dad's leg in a flexed position and rotated it in a circular motion, during which Dad chuckled), as well as being told that Dad is walking several times a day, he agreed it was not necessary and to keep up the good work. He recommended that PT continue, but I will probably have to contact insurance if I want to push it to continue beyond next week (anyone interested in researching this?) . I'm sort of feeling he probably is getting enough exercise each day at this point, so perhaps not worth it. Lucinda also mentioned that should Dad's situation changed, they can always try to "re-activate" it.
Anna also reported that Dad is getting more and more talkative.
Bed Alarm mat has been ordered, but is on back-order. Only cost $75.
I arranged for Anna to be able to come with me to Dad's doctor's appt today to help getting Dad in/out of car. It worked out! He seems to get better each time. He still goes into a little bit of the "fear mode" when being asked to come forward (leaning forward to get out of seat) but handled it better with each successive attempt. Note that getting Dad into the car does require someone (in our case Anna) pulling up on his pants from behind to help lift him onto the seat. Once on the seat, Dad participates in adjusting his feet, body to sit in the seat.
At appointment, doctor had requested x-rays, but I asked him if they were needed---mentioned how difficult it was to get him on x-ray table on prior visit. After checking the prior xrays and examining him (he picked up Dad's leg in a flexed position and rotated it in a circular motion, during which Dad chuckled), as well as being told that Dad is walking several times a day, he agreed it was not necessary and to keep up the good work. He recommended that PT continue, but I will probably have to contact insurance if I want to push it to continue beyond next week (anyone interested in researching this?) . I'm sort of feeling he probably is getting enough exercise each day at this point, so perhaps not worth it. Lucinda also mentioned that should Dad's situation changed, they can always try to "re-activate" it.
Anna also reported that Dad is getting more and more talkative.
Bed Alarm mat has been ordered, but is on back-order. Only cost $75.
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Last Friday and Monday
Dad had a pretty good therapy session last Friday. Since he was doing so well, we decided we would try and see if he could get into my van (hoping that perhaps I could take him for a ride on the weekend, and also to prepare for going to the doctor.) Dad seemed motivated to get in, but couldn't seem to get his butt up high enough on the seat, and then he started leaning back (but he was leaning towards the driver's side, not against the back of the seat.) He then seemed to be a little afraid and as we tried to assist him to come forward, he resisted, and leaned back (pattern we've seen in bed and before in hospital.) With Al's help, we eventually got him out, and Dad seemed a bit unhappy with us. He did do another walk in the house, and a brief set of exercises.
I had planned to check in at the end of Lucinda's therapy session yesterday (had Dylan with me, Paul/Ryland out of town), but I just missed her by the time I arrived. Lucinda told me that Dad did well with the walking and such. She tried getting in/out of bed...in was OK, but getting out was difficult again.
Lucinda mentioned that she wants to try the car again, so I will be there tomorrow and we will attempt it. We had the idea to try the 2nd row seat of my van (instead of passenger), which should actually be easier since the door won't be in the way, and also, allows easier assistance from someone who can sit in the 2nd row.
Lucinda also said that she has requested two more therapy sessions next week, but then he reaches his max on therapy. As it turns out, Dad has an appointment this Friday with the ortho surgeon, and I will talk to him about the possibility of more therapy. Depending upon how getting in the car goes tomorrow, i'll see if I need to arrange for a taxi to the doctor's appt again.
I had planned to check in at the end of Lucinda's therapy session yesterday (had Dylan with me, Paul/Ryland out of town), but I just missed her by the time I arrived. Lucinda told me that Dad did well with the walking and such. She tried getting in/out of bed...in was OK, but getting out was difficult again.
Lucinda mentioned that she wants to try the car again, so I will be there tomorrow and we will attempt it. We had the idea to try the 2nd row seat of my van (instead of passenger), which should actually be easier since the door won't be in the way, and also, allows easier assistance from someone who can sit in the 2nd row.
Lucinda also said that she has requested two more therapy sessions next week, but then he reaches his max on therapy. As it turns out, Dad has an appointment this Friday with the ortho surgeon, and I will talk to him about the possibility of more therapy. Depending upon how getting in the car goes tomorrow, i'll see if I need to arrange for a taxi to the doctor's appt again.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Fri/Wednesday
Dad had another good PT session last Friday, as well as today. Lucinda mentioned last week that PT, per Medicare guidelines was about to run out...she indicated last Friday that he probably only had one more week, but then when I pressed her, said she could probably do two more weeks. The burden is apparently to be able to show that what she is doing in PT that can't be done with caregivers and others at home. This week we scheduled today and Friday.
Haydee was there last Saturday morning and Tuesday and reported Dad was taking walks with her and doing better. She said that yesterday he was getting up to walk with just her help. Anna worked Sunday-Wednesday morning (7-11am) and today told me that Dad has been walking with her and also doing the leg exercises (counting up to 100 at times, though not always doing the exercises.) SHe said that the mornings are getting better but it is still a little difficult to get him to get to the edge of the bed. Al chimed in that he is not complaining much anymore or shouting out when doing it. They have also been using the lift to get him into bed at night to ensure he is positioned well on the bed (as he won't scoot himself).
Today, at PT, Lucinda wanted to see how Dad got in/out of bed, so we walked to his room (and he did quite well), and then he sat on the edge of the bed. With the head of the bed raised, we prompted and assisted having him lie his head down and lift his legs up to rest on the bed. He did a tad adjusting, but he was too close to the outside edge of the bed, and we couldn't prompt him to bend his legs and try to lift his butt to slide over. It took more assistance to then get him up, (partially because I think he was too comfortable on the bed!), but again, with assistance, we helped move his legs to the floor and help him sit forward to get to the edge of the bed. He continues to show good strength and motivation in doing the sit to stands. Lucinda wants to try this sequence again on Friday. Obviously, he does it each morning as well.
We also talked about being proactive with some sort of bed alarm. Janice mentioned that for another resident (in another house) they have a floor mat type alarm that goes off when it is stepped on. THis might be better than something on the bed, which might be more prone to go off with irregular movements...does anyone have any thoughts on this? The cost of the floor mat type might be around $200, which I think would be well worth it to hopefully help prevent a fall in the future. Al sleeps just outside of Dad's room (on the couch in the living room), so could be there quickly. I think, if Dad continues to get stronger, it is inevitable that he will return to this pattern of getting up without assistance, and this is the best thing I can think of to help prevent a fall.
One of Haydee's days became available, so I am now planning to use her on Thursday morns (7-11), Saturday morns (7-11) and Tuesday afternoons. Anna is working Sun-Wednesday morns, 7-11. During these hours, they are assisting with the morning routine, doing PT exercises and walking, taking him outside when possible and providing companionship. I think offering the extra care (including the PT) has also been valuable from the perspective of Al and Juana perhaps not feeling quite as overwhelmed and also being able to see how the additional care has been so effective for Dad. This is all conjecture on my part, but I definitely feel good about what appears to be everyone's show of support and team effort in helping Dad to recover from this, including having a better understanding of Dad's moods and how best to deal with them constructively.
My family has a trip to Maui planned right after school is out (June 10-20) to celebrate Paul's niece's high school graduation. It is my intent to maintain the extra help as described above at least until after I return. Dad has a doctor's appointment with the Ortho surgeon on Friday, June 4th.
Haydee was there last Saturday morning and Tuesday and reported Dad was taking walks with her and doing better. She said that yesterday he was getting up to walk with just her help. Anna worked Sunday-Wednesday morning (7-11am) and today told me that Dad has been walking with her and also doing the leg exercises (counting up to 100 at times, though not always doing the exercises.) SHe said that the mornings are getting better but it is still a little difficult to get him to get to the edge of the bed. Al chimed in that he is not complaining much anymore or shouting out when doing it. They have also been using the lift to get him into bed at night to ensure he is positioned well on the bed (as he won't scoot himself).
Today, at PT, Lucinda wanted to see how Dad got in/out of bed, so we walked to his room (and he did quite well), and then he sat on the edge of the bed. With the head of the bed raised, we prompted and assisted having him lie his head down and lift his legs up to rest on the bed. He did a tad adjusting, but he was too close to the outside edge of the bed, and we couldn't prompt him to bend his legs and try to lift his butt to slide over. It took more assistance to then get him up, (partially because I think he was too comfortable on the bed!), but again, with assistance, we helped move his legs to the floor and help him sit forward to get to the edge of the bed. He continues to show good strength and motivation in doing the sit to stands. Lucinda wants to try this sequence again on Friday. Obviously, he does it each morning as well.
We also talked about being proactive with some sort of bed alarm. Janice mentioned that for another resident (in another house) they have a floor mat type alarm that goes off when it is stepped on. THis might be better than something on the bed, which might be more prone to go off with irregular movements...does anyone have any thoughts on this? The cost of the floor mat type might be around $200, which I think would be well worth it to hopefully help prevent a fall in the future. Al sleeps just outside of Dad's room (on the couch in the living room), so could be there quickly. I think, if Dad continues to get stronger, it is inevitable that he will return to this pattern of getting up without assistance, and this is the best thing I can think of to help prevent a fall.
One of Haydee's days became available, so I am now planning to use her on Thursday morns (7-11), Saturday morns (7-11) and Tuesday afternoons. Anna is working Sun-Wednesday morns, 7-11. During these hours, they are assisting with the morning routine, doing PT exercises and walking, taking him outside when possible and providing companionship. I think offering the extra care (including the PT) has also been valuable from the perspective of Al and Juana perhaps not feeling quite as overwhelmed and also being able to see how the additional care has been so effective for Dad. This is all conjecture on my part, but I definitely feel good about what appears to be everyone's show of support and team effort in helping Dad to recover from this, including having a better understanding of Dad's moods and how best to deal with them constructively.
My family has a trip to Maui planned right after school is out (June 10-20) to celebrate Paul's niece's high school graduation. It is my intent to maintain the extra help as described above at least until after I return. Dad has a doctor's appointment with the Ortho surgeon on Friday, June 4th.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Mon/Wed
Dad had good PT sessions both Monday and Wednesday. He is continuing to walk. Today, I arrived towards the end of therapy and Lucinda reported that he walked 2.5 times down the hallway. He continues to say "I can't do it" as he is doing it! I had to return home to pick up something, but then returned and talked to Dad for awhile. He said he wanted to straighten his back so I asked him if he wanted to get up, and he said yes. Note that he was adjusting himself in his chair as well. Then, he initiated all the proper movements for starting to get up (getting his feet underneath him, leaning forward, etc.) Just gave him a little bit of support in moving from sit to stand, and absolutely no cries out from him. Once up, he started to walk, and also saying "I can't do it." We just moved a little, and he sat on the couch. A little later, said he was ready to get up, and again he initiated the proper movements, including coming forward from a semi-reclined position on the couch...this is key as this is still the trouble they are having in the morning, so the more he does it the better. Anna mentioned that this morning when time to get up, Dad had his legs out of the side of the bed, as if he was trying to do it himself. Of course that's good news and bad, as we certainly don't want him to try and get him and fall again. I think I will talk to them about a bed alarm.
I am very encouraged by Dad's increased strength and motivation to return to his former abilities. He was also verbally responding that he was doing "better" and also saying "it's going to take a few more walks to do it myself."
I am very encouraged by Dad's increased strength and motivation to return to his former abilities. He was also verbally responding that he was doing "better" and also saying "it's going to take a few more walks to do it myself."
Friday, May 14, 2010
Even Better Therapy today!
Dad did really great in therapy today. Again I arrived late, but before I got there he had walked down the entire hall, and even gone outside to the front and sat outside! When I arrived, he was heading back down the hallway. The entire time he was saying "I can't do it" and expressing some pain as he would move the right leg (and thus put weight on the left.) But when asked if he wanted to keep walking, he would respond "Yes!" He made it all the way down the hall!
AFter the walks, Dad rested a bit, and then Lucinda had Dad do his leg exercises. He participated in the counting today. He was also interacting more with Lucinda today...in one of the photos you can sort of make out Dad's ever so slight smile towards her.
Lucinda told me that per typical Medicare schedule, Dad would have transitioned to only 2x/week therapy next week, but she said, based on his progress, she thought it would be no problem to keep him at 3x/week, at least for one more week.
Anna reported that yesterday, Dad had walked from the bathroom into the family room. She also said the mornings are going better, though there are still occasions when they are using the lift. Still, getting him from bed to the edge of the bed is still difficult, and he does "cry out" when being assisted to stand, but commented that his stability in standing is much improved.
After therapy, I took Dad outside in his wheelchair to enjoy the sunshine in the backyard. Tried to initiate a game of dominos but he seemed content just to relax, so I gave him a little neck rub and also strolled a little too. When I brought him back in, before leaving, I asked him if he wanted to stay in his room or go into the family room, and he said the family room.
So hope this progress continues!!!
AFter the walks, Dad rested a bit, and then Lucinda had Dad do his leg exercises. He participated in the counting today. He was also interacting more with Lucinda today...in one of the photos you can sort of make out Dad's ever so slight smile towards her.
Lucinda told me that per typical Medicare schedule, Dad would have transitioned to only 2x/week therapy next week, but she said, based on his progress, she thought it would be no problem to keep him at 3x/week, at least for one more week.
Anna reported that yesterday, Dad had walked from the bathroom into the family room. She also said the mornings are going better, though there are still occasions when they are using the lift. Still, getting him from bed to the edge of the bed is still difficult, and he does "cry out" when being assisted to stand, but commented that his stability in standing is much improved.
After therapy, I took Dad outside in his wheelchair to enjoy the sunshine in the backyard. Tried to initiate a game of dominos but he seemed content just to relax, so I gave him a little neck rub and also strolled a little too. When I brought him back in, before leaving, I asked him if he wanted to stay in his room or go into the family room, and he said the family room.
So hope this progress continues!!!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Walking today
Dad had a good session with Lucinda in PT today. I arrived late and he had already walked two times, more than 15 feet each time! He did it again after I arrived. He required very little help with the rising from the wheelchair, and then instinctively started walking, holding himself relatively straight. Interestingly, he kept saying "I can't do it" though not angrily, and he still continued to do it. They said he did that the first two times as well. After the walking, he appeared to be tiring. He participated a little with the leg exercises, though he wouldn't count and was mostly looking down as Lucinda motioned him through it.
Anna reported that in the morning, Dad is still showing resistance to moving from the bed to the edge of it, though wasn't so "grabby" today. Before therapy she said he was pretty awake this morning...they had played with the ball---she said he was kicking it quite well. She also mentioned that he was talking to her about "taking deductions from her pay."
I went to pick up a prescription for Dad, then returned. He was still in the wheelchair, eyes closed, apparently listening to music on the TV. Janice had started the bingo game, so I moved him over to the table, though he seemed like he was going to be too tired to participate. He did participate in the bingo games last Friday.
Anna reported that in the morning, Dad is still showing resistance to moving from the bed to the edge of it, though wasn't so "grabby" today. Before therapy she said he was pretty awake this morning...they had played with the ball---she said he was kicking it quite well. She also mentioned that he was talking to her about "taking deductions from her pay."
I went to pick up a prescription for Dad, then returned. He was still in the wheelchair, eyes closed, apparently listening to music on the TV. Janice had started the bingo game, so I moved him over to the table, though he seemed like he was going to be too tired to participate. He did participate in the bingo games last Friday.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Fri/Sat/Monday
Dad's therapy session on Friday at 1pm went quite well. THe therapist put a phone book down between his feet, and I explained to him about keeping his feet apart, so he did his sit to stands much better. We actually had him do several repetitions of that (as opposed to taking steps and walking) and he was doing it quite well, with very little assistance in the lifting. I left about 1:45pm after therapy, but spoke later with Haydee who was working from 2-4. When I called she said they were sitting outside (nice day), playing cards and enjoying the weather. Haydee also worked on Saturday morning from 7 to 11. She said Dad did his exercises in bed, and then he got up (with help from Haydee and Al) without the need for the Hoyer lift. She also played card and threw the ball with him, but then she said he got quite sleepy around 10:30am.
THerapy yesterday was not quite as good. Dad was very sleepy and more unresponsive and didn't participate much in the leg exercises. We did eventually do a few sit to stands with some success, though not as good as Friday. Seemed a bit more sensitive today to minimal touches of his arm/back area. When the therapist left, we had moved Dad from the recliner to the wheelchair, so I took him outside to enjoy the sunshine. Couldn't get him to talk much or play ball, so I rubbed his neck/back a little. Walked around some more and he appeared to perk up a little bit from the movement, though when I crossed him over the threshold into the house he screached some "ows" from the "bumps" he must have felt from the wheelchair (though it was very slight.) I left him in his room to watch the baseball game...beef stew was on the stove for dinner a half hour later.
Hopefully therapy will go a little better tomorrow. Haydee is unavailable to work this week and not until the end of next week (planned vacation). Anna worked Sunday Morning, this morning and tomorrow morning...will try to get a report from her tomorrow.
THerapy yesterday was not quite as good. Dad was very sleepy and more unresponsive and didn't participate much in the leg exercises. We did eventually do a few sit to stands with some success, though not as good as Friday. Seemed a bit more sensitive today to minimal touches of his arm/back area. When the therapist left, we had moved Dad from the recliner to the wheelchair, so I took him outside to enjoy the sunshine. Couldn't get him to talk much or play ball, so I rubbed his neck/back a little. Walked around some more and he appeared to perk up a little bit from the movement, though when I crossed him over the threshold into the house he screached some "ows" from the "bumps" he must have felt from the wheelchair (though it was very slight.) I left him in his room to watch the baseball game...beef stew was on the stove for dinner a half hour later.
Hopefully therapy will go a little better tomorrow. Haydee is unavailable to work this week and not until the end of next week (planned vacation). Anna worked Sunday Morning, this morning and tomorrow morning...will try to get a report from her tomorrow.