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

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Running Away

Last night, grandma decided that she was moving out. It was kind of cute to see that she had packed her "bags" in preparation for her departure. I should have taken a picture prior to secretly unpacking her bag. Obviously, Muddear did not have access to her suitcase, so what do you think she did? Of course, she used a pillowcase. And what do you think I found inside? Nightgowns, t-shirts, socks, and underwear (that she typically never wears).

I couldn't help but giggle - as the pillowcase reminded me of old movies depicting rebellious teens or precocious tweeners running away from home. You know the scene where a pillowcase full of clothes is tied to a stick and slung over the shoulder as they slink away from home in broad daylight.

Needless to say, Muddear is staying.

2 comments:

XUE said...

Hi Nikki, I smile too at the thought of yr grandma running off with a pillowcase bundle! Then I feel sad again, at the thought of what you are going through. My grandpa was like this but I was young & my mother was the caregiver. I don't know what else to say but I will visit you every now & then. Take care & have enough rest too!

njm said...

xue,

When I first became a caregiver it was really hard. The sacrifice of time and just being able to do what I wanted to do was difficult. I also did not know how to deal with all of the mood swings of someone with Dementia.

I try to find the humor in each situation and when I can't I try to write. Both give me peace. Thanks for your concern, I know I appreciate it.

At the mention of your grandpa, I thought...it is amazing the number of people affected by Dementia and Alzheimers. I hope my blog can encourage at least one person.