Mum’s progress into dementia is slow and grinding.
Her spirit is still very strong but we notice gaps all the time now.
Four times a day folk come into her house, log in using a freephone number, administer pills, make meals, coerce her into the shower.
However, she will report that she has been alone for days, that she is worried she isn’t taking medications or seeing folk.
She phones her shopping lists in several times, each call sounding like first contact.
We’re unsure of how long things will take.
I don’t think there’s a textbook.
This spring we hope to refresh her garden before it becomes overgrown.
The house doesn’t need decorating but we’ve replaced a few of her small electricals.
Gill is a cosign on her bank so uses a card to get her shopping but Mum hasn’t learned this yet. Each visit with shopping bags is greeted with “how much do I owe you?”
Physically she’s still spry though she does like to play the ancient Granny at times.
I’ve seen her move quickly though when she thinks no-one’s watching.
The hardest thing for me is to see the woman I know begin to fade.
The tower of strength who never gave up is now happy for folk to take over.
She complains about losing her independence but I wonder if it’s all noise.
I’ve spoken to Gill about taking the initiative with some things. Involve her in the decision but help her make the right one.
It’s hard but like everything else we’ve dealt with, we take it one day at a time.
What other way is there?
