Tips For Caregiver's

People with Alzheimer's disease frequently become more disoriented after dark or when waking. Leaving a night-light on in the bedroom may be helpful.

~WebMd

Friday, February 22, 2008

Sleepover "Almost" Gone Wrong

Beginning yesterday afternoon and continuing well into the evening, the city was plagued by a winter storm. As usual, or should I say what has become the "new" normal routine when there is inclement weather, Sharon spent the night and was prepared to sleep in Muddear's room.

Around 10:30 p.m. last night, Muddear wheeled herself into the hallway and began calling for Mike. More than anything, I was curious about what could be the problem - typically when Sharon spends the night, Muddear is only interested in talking to and hanging out with Sharon. To be honest, I was somewhat surprised.

According to Muddear, she had NO idea why "that lady" was in her room! And maybe if someone would have told her that "that lady" was going to be moving in with her she would not be so upset! Therefore, it was time to seek out "the landlord" to figure this problem out! Of course, after many attempts at explaining that Sharon normally spends the night when the weather is bad, Muddear still was not happy about this situation. "That lady" needed to leave her room so she could go to bed!

To end the discussion, or at least to attempt to, I wheeled Muddear into her room explaining yet again that Sharon was only staying for the night - not forever. Once Muddear was in the bed I thought I could escape. Not quite - Muddear decided that if Sharon was going to stay that she needed to turn the lights and the television off so she could go to sleep. We all know that Muddear has no problems going to sleep with either of them on - she does it all the time when I or other granny-sitters sit in her room. This was turning into a classic battle of wills. Muddear wanted things her way or no way.

How did this conundrum end? I had to play mother hen and tell Muddear that this simply is the way it is. If she didn't want to watch television she could go to sleep or she could sit up until she was tired. As for me...I was going to bed! (Sharon smiled sheepishly.)

1 comment:

Jane Carlstrom said...

Good for you. It is so hard, IMHO, to not give in and placate. But in the long run,is not good for anyone. You are so strong and balanced to set boundaries and expectations. It will help Muddear be able to live in your home longer and to stay appropriate longer. Cheering you on and learning from you. You rock! Hugs, Jane