Yesterday was seven years ago that my dad died. Seven years. Some days it feels like yesterday that we would have breakfast together and read articles to one another while sharing the local paper. Some days it feels like he has been gone forever. I am grateful to have the original 12 letters my dad wrote to me my freshman year in college. There is something about holding … [Read more...]
Caregivers, Touch And Communication Are Intimately Tied Together
I created this video blog three years ago. Mom is now 90 and has slowed down considerably during the intervening years. Now that I’ve moved in with mom to take care for her, I am reminded how an intimate touch opens the door to communication. Disclaimer: The material in this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace, nor does it replace, consulting … [Read more...]
Letters To Our Daughter: The Family Cat
Many of my posts lately have been about mom and adjusting to living with her again while taking on the role of full time caregiver. I've shared how this is really hard, but I also need to remind myself and my readers, why I am willing to to this work. This is another of dads missive's from the "Letters To Our Daughter" series. It made me laugh and reminded me of how much I … [Read more...]
Puzzles can help an elder with increased dexterity, memory, socialization and meditation skills.
Which in turn helps the caregiver. Beverly Nance is a mom, caregiver to her autistic daughter, an entrepreneur and a born puzzler. She has been doing jigsaw puzzles since her 20’s and loves big puzzles of 1000 pieces. Frames come first and then the middle. With space dedicated to puzzles, she can come back and finish one the next day. For Beverly, it is a form of meditation … [Read more...]
Lessons From An 89-Year-Old – how to sit quietly and just think.
Lately, I’ve noticed mom just sitting for long periods of time. I may have to call her more than once to get her attention and it scares me. This learned behavior comes from the couple of times when her blood sugar had dropped dangerously low. When I do get her attention, she seems confused and my mind immediately goes to, “Is this the start of dementia?” Jumping to … [Read more...]