Change is the constant in caregiving. And, it’s not just changes from day to day; often, changes occur one minute to the next.
When you’re close to these changes, you may adjust to them without much thought. Until a milestone, like the holiday season, happens. And, then you think: Wow! It’s all different now.
So, tell us: What’s different for you (and your care recipient) this holiday season? And, more important, how does that feel?
There will be no special dinner to prepare for mom, not even to puree for her, as her eating has decreased from mashed, to pureed, to just thickened nutritional drinks. There will not likely be any company for us here, there are no presents, as finances do not allow for that. Anything that may have been of even the slightest interest to mom, is not longer of any interest this year. It will be a much quieter day, even more so then last year, we will watch the Christmas parade in the morning, and she will probably doze off in her wheelchair before the parade is over. I didn’t decorate this year, it just wasn’t in me to do it, no one really would enjoy it, would make no difference to mom at all. I try little things to entertain her, or amuse her, but they don’t ususally work. It is all about sleep for her most of the time, and what she will allow me to feed her, and the little amount of tv time in the morning, nothing else really left.
.-= Donna Webb´s last blog ..A Moment =-.
Hi Donna–It sounds like you are focusing on what’s most important: Being together as a family. It must be a sad time for you, too, experiencing all these changes and losses. I know that your mom is exactly where she loves to be and that your care and love are the best gifts she can ever receive. Keep us posted…
.-= Denise´s last blog ..Guide Helps Consumers Decide if Reverse Mortgage A Good Option =-.
Donna…you truly are a gift to your mom and to all of us. Enjoy the quiet moments with your mother. Its another sign that the holidays really arent about the stuff but the gentle touches you are still able to give her. Im praying for you. I sit here with tears in my eyes over your post. Your a very special lady indeed and Im praying for you and I want you to know Im blessed for having met you in here. I blogged earlier about periscopes and how they show us things that obstruction in our lives cannot see on our own. You definately are my periscope. You teach me every day to try to be more patient as things change so quickly. Thank you!!