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Updated on July 15th 2011
I created this BLOG in hopes that my journey with my mother and her Alzheimer’s can help others. I list my daily posts below. I wanted to explain a little about my mother Alzheimer’s. She has helped me all my life with my journey of cerebral palsy. She is 88 years old and has had Alzheimer’s for at least 14 years now. I first noticed her memory problems back in the fall of 1997. She was able to keep driving and handling her check book until the winter of 2003/2004. She could still go on 2 mile hikes with me into 2005 and ½ mile walks thru 2008, now she mostly can only walk a few yards before her hip starts to hurt her. I moved back into her home in 2005 to help her stay in her house although I have kept my own place thru March 2011. One of the things I feel that has helped her go 14 years and still going is I’ve had people (mostly me) around her quit a bit. This helped her stay engaged with people. In 2003 she averaged people with her @90hrs/wk out of 168 hrs in a week, in 2004/2005/2006 @110hrs/wk, 2007 @125hrs/wk, 2008 @135hrs/wk. Then starting in January 2009 she has had someone with her 24/7. I started using care givers in 2005 to help and to give mom other women to talk to and get use to. Right now she can still dress and undress herself but is starting to struggle with it and needs to be told what to do most of the time. In December 2009 she started to refuse to wash herself now one of the care givers I use sponge bathes her 3 times a week. Right now mentally she is like a 4 to 6 year old girl with just a few seconds of memory. She has started to get confused with the getting undressed and dressed part but can still do it herself. She has also sometimes thought the person she sees in the bathroom mirror is someone else this started in 2010. I started using a diaper pad on mom’s bed in July 2011. She can still walk on her own with no help. Here is a list of the drugs and supplements she takes for her Alzheimer’s
•Razadyne started in 2000 then in 2011 changed to generic Galantamine
•Namenda started March 2005
•Folic Acid started in 2001
•Turmeric started in 2001
Sunday July 31st 2011
Mom had a bladder accident overnight but had it when she was in the bathroom so she didn’t get the bed wet. Mom and I got up for the day around 9:30am. A cute note on mom she still makes her bed every time she gets up. During breakfast she talked about the squirrels and today took her pills with no fussing. It was a sunny day and the temps in the morning were still below 90. After a couple bathroom stops mom and I took a short drive to Sioux Passage Park but not getting out of the car until we got back home. Mom seemed happy to get out of the house and tried a few times to start a conversation. When we got back mom took a nap in her chair before lunch. We talked about the birds on the feeder as we ate lunch. The bird feeder has really turned out to be a great thing for mom. Mom took a short nap after lunch in her chair as I played on the computer. I still follow my routine of having mom go to the bathroom before and after each meal for now this has cut down on the bladder accidents. We took a second drive to Sioux Passage Park after mom’s nap and a bathroom break. On this drive mom was happy but quieter. We then watched some TV before dinner. We talked about the birds and flowers, at dinner mom was being more talkative than her normal. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm. Mom still has her cough at times it seems to be getting better but not always I need to pray on that getting better. This evening mom was quiet but happy and we laughed a few times. I did get my normal amount of fussing when I had mom change into her nightgown and take off her pants. Overall mom has been in good spirits.
Saturday July 30th 2011
Mom did not have any bladder or bowel accidents overnight or today I thank god for that. Mom and I got up around 8am so I could have mom go to the bathroom I’m not trusting her system to get her up in time. This morning I couldn’t get mom to take her pills at breakfast we even argued for awhile sometimes that works for me. She went back to bed since it was raining and I got her up a little later had her go to the bathroom then I was able to get her to take the pills. So this morning started off difficult but was better by the afternoon. Mom ended up sleeping most of the morning all day mom has been sleepy. Since it stopped raining for awhile mom and I took our first drive in several days. The temps were in the low 80’s so we drove to Sioux Passage Park. I wanted to go somewhere close so we would get back before mom needed a bathroom break. Mom even tried starting a few conversations. It was good to get mom out of the house and get some fresh air. I fixed lunch after our drive and mom talked about how the tree branches were still. After going to the bathroom mom then laid down for a nap. I like to make her go to the bathroom before and after meals this helps keep her from having bladder accidents. We ate dinner after moms nap and watching some of the baseball Cardinals game mom even slept through some of the game on her chair. During dinner mom talked about the birds outside feeding and the flowers. After dinner we took a second drive to Sioux Passage Park it was clearer but temps were still below 90. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed around 12:30am. We watched TV and laughed some tonight in between mom napping in her chair. I did get some static when I had mom change but not when I had her brush her teeth. Overall today mom has been sleepy and pleasant except for the pills and changing.
Friday July 29th 2011
Mom did not have a number 1 bladder accident overnight but did have one this afternoon after a nap. Andrea was able to get all of mom washed today but it was a challenge. I slept in some today mom had already eaten by the time I had breakfast. I meet up with a friend today for lunch. It was good seeing him and hanging out. I also had some grocery shopping to do. It was another hot day with temps getting up to 98 but at least it wasn’t 100 lol. Andrea said mom was distant today and up about half the time Andrea and Shannon were here. Mom was asleep when I got home at 3:30pm but got up a little after 4pm and that’s when she had her number 1 bladder accident. I had a hard time getting mom to take her wet pants off she is getting fussier on that. It’s mostly from confusion which I pray will get better after she feels 100 percent again. Mom still has a bit of cough. During dinner mom talked about the birds and the lights on the dinning room chandler. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed at 12:30am. Mom was quiet this evening but responsive when I talked to her and when I made her laugh. I got some fussing when it came to mom changing and taking off her pants. Overall today mom was quiet but responsive and in so so spirits she was confused a lot more this evening than her normal.
Thursday July 28th 2011
Mom did not have any bladder accidents overnight or today. Andrea had some trouble getting mom to dress and I had to help get mom to go to the bathroom before breakfast. Mom and I ate breakfast together and we talked about the birds outside feeding. Mom likes the brightly colored birds. I left after breakfast to spend sometime to myself and run errands. Andrea said mom was sleepy today and slept most of the 5 hours Andrea was here. Mom was asleep when I got home at 1:30pm. It was another 100+ day with heat index over 110 so I didn’t take mom for a drive. After she got up we just watched some TV and talked. Mom was sleepy this after as well and confused. I had to tell her where the bathroom is. Mom over the past few days has gotten confused, and started for the bathroom then get side tracked and forget she was going to the bathroom even though her system told her to get up out of the chair and go. During dinner mom and I talked about the flowers and birds on the feeder. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed at 11:30pm. We watched TV this evening mom was quiet but responsive she even took a short nap after dinner. I did get some static when it came to mom changing into her nightgown and taking off her pants.
Wednesday July 27th 2011
Mom had a bladder accident overnight but not during the day today. I had got up before Andrea got here mom was in the bathroom after having a number 1 bladder accident so I changed her top sheet and diaper pad that’s on her bed. Andrea had some trouble bathing mom but did get all of her washed. Andrea is still cleaning mom by taking several trips in washing a little bit each time before mom gets to mad. I was up and down so much last night that I slept in some after Andrea got here. When I got up mom and I had breakfast together. Mom was quiet during breakfast then giving a hard time with taking her pills. It took us awhile to get mom to take all of them. Mom was sort of fussy this morning mostly from confusion. This afternoon when Schatcie was here mom started being friendlier and nicer. As for me I had a meeting with my IRA finance guy on where to put my retirement money. I got back home around 4:30pm and mom was up with Schatcie watching TV. It was another hot day with temps getting to 100 and heat index of 115 so mom and I did not go for a drive. I hate to see what the electric bill will be for the month with all these hot temps. We ate dinner shortly after I got back in which mom talked about the wind blowing outside. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed at 11pm. Tonight I didn’t have much trouble getting mom to brush her teeth or change which was nice.
Tuesday July 26th 2011
Mom had a bladder accident overnight but not during the day today. Andrea had mom up and dressed when I got up so we ate breakfast together before I left. I didn’t do much just ran a couple of errands it was another hot day today. Mom slept about half the time I was gone and was sleeping when I got back at 1:30pm. It was to hot to take mom out for a drive so after I woke her up to go to the bathroom we just watched TV. Both of us were quiet this afternoon but mom was being sweet. During dinner mom talked about the flowers and squirrels outside. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:45pm. Mom was so tired she took a short nap after dinner. I first had her go to the bathroom. I have started a procedure where I have mom go to the bathroom before and after every meal also if she sleeps during the day I wake her up about every 45 minutes or so. This is all in an attempt to lesson her bladder accidents and so far it has helped doing this during the day. During the day mom was coughing less than she has been but tonight not so much. After mom got up from her nap we watched a talent show and movie this evening. Mom was very responsive tonight and we laughed several times. Mom went to bed for the night at midnight. She did fuss some when it came to changing but it wasn’t too bad.
Monday July 25th 2011
Mom had a bladder accident overnight but not during the day today. Andrea was able to get mom’s sheets changed and mom changed into dry panties but it was a struggle when it came time to wash mom. Andrea was then having problems getting mom up out of bed so when I got up I got mom up then had her get dressed. We ended up eating breakfast together. Mom was quiet during breakfast but responsive. I left after that to run some errands and spend time to myself. It was another hot day but cooler than the past week so I didn’t walk very far today over at the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area. I ended up getting back around 3:30pm and found out that mom had been up most of the day and was sweet except for the washing. Mom had just laid, down before I got home and I let her sleep until 4pm when she got up. We then took our first drive in over a week. I just took her up to Sioux Passage Park. I wanted to get her out of the stuffy house for this was the coolest day in more than a week with temps at 94. Mom still has her cough but it is suppose, to get really hot again tomorrow through Thursday so no telling when we may get another chance for a drive. I fixed dinner after our drive and mom talked about the squirrels during dinner. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm. Mom and I both were quiet tonight but did get in some laughs. Mom had some confusion when I had her brush her teeth and change. She did fuss some when I had her take the pants off. The fussing mostly comes from not really understanding things anymore.
Sunday July 24th 2011
Mom did have a small number one bladder accident overnight in her bed and another small one this afternoon but not in her bed. I woke mom up at 6am to take a bathroom break and that’s when I noticed her wet bed so I changed her sheets. I then got mom up at 8am before I left for church so mom could take another bathroom break. I had my friend Patti come over to watch mom while I was gone. Patti was able to get mom her breakfast right after I left but mom would not take her pills with Patti. Mom actually stayed up most of the time I was gone. As for me it was nice getting out for the first time in 2 days. I meet some friends at church and ate breakfast with them after. It was good to socialize with some friends. I feed mom lunch when I got back home around 12:30pm. Mom then stayed up for a little while. After she had her bladder accident and I got her changed which wasn’t easy but not as bad as last weekend, she took a nap around 3:30pm until 5pm when we ate dinner. Mom was quiet but responsive this afternoon before her nap. During dinner mom talked about how windy it was outside. We had a storm come through this afternoon so today was the first day the temps were under 100 in 5 days. The temp got up to 96 with heat index over 100. It was still too hot to take mom for a drive especially since she still has her cough. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:45pm and she went to bed at 1:30am. We spent the evening watching TV and we both quiet I was tired myself but mom was responsive whenever I talked to her. I received some static when I had mom change into her nightgown and take off her pants.
Saturday July 23rd 2011
Mom did not have any bladder accidents overnight or today. Last night I got mom up around 2am to go to the bathroom before I went to bed then I got her up around 7am and for last night that worked. We both then slept until 10am when I had her go to the bathroom again before breakfast. Mom and I both were quiet during breakfast and mom took along time taking her pills. After breakfast I let mom sleep until lunch time. It was another hot day today with temps hitting 100 for the 4th day in a row. I decided to keep mom in the house since it was so hot. During lunch we talked some about the birds and squirrels outside. The rest of the day we just watched TV and relaxed. During dinner mom talked about the trees blowing outside. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm. I had no problem getting mom to brush her teeth but she was confused and a little fussy when I had her take off her pants.
Friday July 22nd 2011
Mom did have a bladder accident overnight her bed was wet and blanket nut had none the rest of the day. Andrea changed her bedding out then washed mom. Mom was a challenge when Andrea washed her today. Mom was finishing taking her pills when I ate my breakfast. It was another sunny day with temps getting to 101 with heat index over 110 to 115. I took off to run some errands but tried to stay in the AC as much as possible. Mom was up most of the time Andrea was here but quiet. Mom was sleeping when I got home and I got her up after I finished my lunch so she could go to the bathroom. Since it was so hot outside I decided not to take mom for a drive maybe tomorrow morning. Mom and I watched TV and laughed until dinner. Again this afternoon mom tried to start a few conversations and during dinner she talked about the squirrels. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed at 11:30pm. After dinner I got mom to go to the bathroom twice then she laid down for a short nap. She does sometimes get confused on where the bathroom is and seems to get more confused every month. Although right now she is feeling a bit sick so that does make her more confused as well. She still has the cough but it still sounds like it’s trying to break up I hope so at least. Mom did fuss when I had her change and take off her pants. So was just mostly confused I just keep repeating what to do over and over.
Thursday July 21st 2011
Mom did not have any bladder accident overnight but did have a number 1 bladder accident right after breakfast. When I left mom had eaten breakfast and took her pills. We ate breakfast together today. Andrea did say mom was difficult when she tried to get mom into dry cloths. Mom was up most of the time Andrea was here today and was up when I got back home at 1:30pm. It was another sunny hot day with temps getting up to 102 and heat index around 112. I just drove around and did some shopping today spending a few hours to myself and trying to stay in the AC. Since it was another 100+ temp day I did not take mom for a drive we just stayed in the AC. Mom is feeling a little better each day but still has a cough but you can tell it’s starting to break up. We watched TV this afternoon mom was quiet but responsive and sweet all day today. During dinner mom did try and start some conversations mostly about the squirrels outside. She also started some conversations this evening as we watched TV. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm. So mom was up most of the day today. When I had mom change into her nightgown tonight she started taking her pants off without me saying anything that was nice. Overall today mom started more conversations than her normal this evening and sweet with me.
Wednesday July 20th 2011
Mom did not have any bladder accidents overnight and I don’t think she had any today. Sometime today mom put on a pair of depends that we put in the bathroom and left her panties off. We leave panties before now depends in the bathroom so when she sees the ones on her are dirty she can change when it is fresh on her mind. Andrea said mom was difficult when she bathe mom today she wasn’t able to get the butt area she did get the rest of mom washed though. Mom was fine the rest of the day confused but nice. I think mom slept about half the time I was gone today. Mom was dressed and had finished her breakfast by the time I left and was up when I got home at 3:30pm. It was another very hot day here with just the temp getting up to 100 the heat index was over 110. So I didn’t take mom for a drive today. For me today I just took a drive and spent some time to myself but it was too hot for a hike. Mom and I watched TV until dinner. Mom was responsive but quiet this afternoon and she was sweet with me at least all day. During dinner mom was also quiet but happy I was around. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:45pm and she went to bed around midnight. We watched a couple talent shows and the news tonight as well as laughed several times. Mom was confused some tonight when I had her brush her teeth and change. Since she had on the depends I decided to let her keep her pants on instead of fighting her to take them off.
Tuesday July 19th 2011
For the first time in awhile mom did not have any number 1 bladder accidents overnight or today. Mom was up eating breakfast when I got up so Andrea fixed me some breakfast and I joined mom. I then left mom and Andrea to spend some time to myself. It was a sunny and very hot day today so I didn’t do any hiking. When I got back home at 1:30 mom had just laid, down to nap and I let her sleep a little. Andrea said mom was more alert and she was sweet today. Mom is starting to feel better she still has a cough but it is getting better. After I got mom up we both were up the rest of the day and night until midnight. It was too hot to take mom out especially being sick going from AC to heat and back would get her sicker the next 2 days are to be really hot even hotter than today. We just watched TV and talked plus I got mom to take several bathroom trips to make sure she wouldn’t have a bladder accident. I’m also giving her juices to drink during the day through dinner to help with her cold and cough. We ate dinner around 5pm so the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm. We watched a talent show tonight and a movie. During dinner mom talked about the squirrels on the tree and how beautiful it looked outside. This evening she was quiet but responsive when I talked to her. I did receive some fussing and confusion when I had mom change into her nightgown and take off her pants but no were near as bad as this past weekend. Overall today mom has been more alert more like her normal plus she has been sweet except for changing.
Monday July 18th 2011
Mom did have a number 1 bladder accident overnight but not during the day or evening. Andrea was able to get mom washed but it was a struggle. Other than that mom was cheerful but very confused. Mom has been more confused than normal since she has been sick I hope it gets better after she starts to feel better. She even gets confused the past couple of days as too where the bathroom is. This must be hard on mom as she goes through this hell. Mom slept about half the time Andrea or Shannon were here and was sleeping when I came home. I had the caregivers getting mom up about every 30 to 45 minutes to take a bathroom break trying to keep her from have another bladder accident and today it worked. I got mom up shortly after I got home at 3:30pm to go to the bathroom and she was up the rest of the day until about 12:30am. Since it was so hot outside we just watched TV until dinner at 5pm. So the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm. This whole week, is suppose to be very hot with temps near or at 100 so, mom will most likely stay inside all week. I will miss our drives. Mom has been quiet but cheerful all day and evening as we watched a talent show on TV and other shows. I got mom laughing as normal by acting silly. I didn’t really get any fussing tonight when I had mom change into her nightgown and take off her pants she was just confused and I had to explain what to do.
Sunday July 17th 2011
Mom did have a number 1 bladder accident overnight and this morning another one. We are going to try and get her to wear depends this week. She does want to take the diaper pad on the bed off or at least try. I had my friend Schatcie come over this morning for about 3.5 hours so I could go get some medicine for mom and to take a break. Mom was up most of the time Schatcie was here and had just finished lunch when I got home. We both struggled but finally got mom to change out of some wet pants. Mom took a short nap in her recliner chair and I took one in my recliner chair. After our naps mom and I took a short drive to Sioux Passage Park and talked about the flowers we saw and how sunny it was. After our drive mom took another short nap in her chair before dinner. After this nap mom had another number 1 bladder accident when she was in the bathroom. So I struggled again to get her to take the wet pants and underwear off. This time since we were in for the day I just had her, put the nightgown on so I wouldn’t have to fight getting her to change again. Then we ate dinner and she was pretty quiet during dinner and the rest of the evening as we watched TV. I did get here to laugh a few times and she was responsive just quiet. Mom has not felt real good the past 2 days a rough 2 days for both of us. The last time mom ate anything was at 6:30pm and she went to bed at 12:30am.
Saturday July 16th 2011
Mom did not have any bladder accidents overnight but did have one this afternoon and this evening. This was the first time in awhile she had bladder problems even though she was up. Apart of this could be mom wasn’t feeling real good today she has had a cough and somewhat of a runny nose. I got mom up to go to the bathroom at 8am then let her sleep until 10:30am when I fixed us breakfast. I got mom dressed and no problem with the pills. During breakfast mom talked about the birds outside feeding. I had mom take a couple bathroom stops before we went on a short drive. It was a hot and sunny day but not to hot yet in the early afternoon and the car is air conditioned. I thought it would be good for mom to get outside for a little while even though she wasn’t feeling 100 percent. It’s good to get out of a stuffy house. We took a short drive and the only drive of the day to Sioux Passage Park. Mom can make this drive without needing any bathroom breaks. Mom was her normal self on our drive and enjoyed most of it. I fixed our lunch shortly after our drive and mom talked about the squirrels outside. Mom was up the whole day not taking any naps so we watched TV and I gave mom plenty of fluid this might have helped with her having bladder accidents. The first number 1 bladder accident was this afternoon and I had an argument and hard time getting mom to take off both her wet pants and underwear. She was acting like a stubborn kid but I won her over and got the cloths changed. I got our dinner ready about 5pm so the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6pm and she went to bed around 10pm. As we were watching TV mom went to the bathroom but didn’t get there before having another number 1 bladder accident. This time it was another argument to get mom to change out of her wet pants and underwear but this time I had her put on her nightgown so she would be ready for bed later in the evening.
Friday July 15th 2011
Mom had a number 1 bowel accident overnight and I had to change her top bed sheet. Andrea was still not feeling good so I had my friend Patti come over so mom did not get washed today. Today I had no problem getting mom to take her pills as she talked about the birds and squirrels over breakfast. I left mom with Patti and took off to spend sometime to myself and run errands. It was a sunny day with temps getting up to lower 90’s and this will be the coolest day over the next week. So I didn’t do much hiking today and most likely will not do any next week. Mom was up about half the time Patti was here and quiet. I had Patti try and get mom up every 30 minutes or so to try and keep mom from having another bowel accident. Mom was in bed when I got home and I got her up shortly afterwards. I watched TV this afternoon with mom letting it cool down some before taking a drive. We ate an early dinner and were done by 5:15pm. During dinner mom talked about the birds and squirrels. She does get a kick out of watching the squirrels run up and down the tree. I had mom go to the bathroom a couple times after dinner so we could go for a drive. I took mom for a drive to Sioux Passage Park after the news when it was a little cooler outside. We talked about how sunny it was during our drive mom was responsive and at times tried starting up conversations. The rest of the night mom and I watched some news shows and movies and of course I acted silly making mom and I laugh. I had mom go to bed around 12:30am the last hour she was starting to cough some. Overall mom was in good spirits.
Thursday July 14th 2011
Mom had a number 1 bowel accident overnight and I had to change her bed sheets. Mom also had another number 1 bowel accident just before I got back home. Today Andrea was only here a short time she wasn’t feeling good so I had another friend come over for awhile. I had some trouble getting mom to take all her pills today she is just confused. I did take mom for a short drive after breakfast and a couple trips to the bathroom. Mom was happy most of the morning and drive and her normal talking on our drive. I feed her lunch after our drive and before Shannon got there. I’m now also having mom go to the bathroom after a meal if she doesn’t do it on her own. This is to try and get her system cleaned out before a nap and then wake her up every 30 minutes or so. She seems to have the bowel accidents when she sleeps to long. Today I bought some diaper pads to put on mom’s bed so we will see how this helps. Mom slept most of the time Shannon was here. After I got back I got mom up and had Shannon help get mom to change her wets pants she was confused on why. Mom and I then watched some TV before dinner. Mom was quiet but during dinner she talked about the squirrels running up and down the tree and the birds on the feeder. I took mom on a short drive to Sioux Passage Park after dinner and a couple bathroom breaks. Mom and I talked about how nice a day it looked and laughed a few times during our drive. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and I had her go to bed around 12:30am. As we watched TV tonight mom and I laughed at my acting silly. We watched some of so you think you can dance. Mom seems to like the shows that have singing or dancing on them. Overall mom is always confused on things but in a happy mood.
Wednesday July 13th 2011
Mom had a number 1 bowel accident overnight and I had to change her bed sheets. Mom also had another number 1 bowel accident when Andrea was here. On a positive note Andrea was able to give mom the best bathing mom has had in a couple weeks. Mom slept about half the time Andrea was here and Andrea said mom seemed confused more than normal. I didn’t feel good last night so I slept in this morning and it worked I got my best sleep after Andrea got here. I now feel much better my body needed the sleep. Mom had eaten breakfast and was back in bed by the time I finally left. Andrea did say she had problems getting mom to understand she needs to take her pills mom wasn’t fussing just confused. Mom was asleep when I got back home and I woke her up shortly after I got home to watch TV and go to the bathroom. We are trying not to let mom sleep to long during the day at any one time, this is in hope to cut down on mom’s bowel accidents. I had to wait this afternoon on Charter because by internet connection was down. It still isn’t fully working correctly. Mom and I ate dinner at 5pm after the guy from Charter left. So the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm. During dinner mom talked about the flowers and how beautiful it looked outside. After dinner I had mom go to the bathroom a couple times before we took a drive to Sioux Passage Park. Today was one of the coolest days in awhile so it was the first drive mom and I had in a couple days. Mom was quiet during the drive but responsive and enjoyed most of it. We watched TV afterwards and laughed a few times until 1am. I had mom change into her nightgown and take off her pants and had no problem. I’m hoping and praying mom going 7 ½ hours with no food or drink allowed her enough time for everything to run through her system.
Tuesday July 12th 2011
Mom did not have any bowel accidents overnight but did have a number 1 bowel accident right after dinner. Mom and I ate breakfast together today before I left. It was another sunny and hot morning and early afternoon. The temps were 102 today before the afternoon storms. So I ran some errands and stayed in the air conditioning most of the day. I got back home around 3:30pm just before it started raining. Mom was sleeping when I got home and I got her up shortly afterwards. Andrea and Schatcie said mom was quiet today. I have started today trying not to let mom sleep more than about 30 minutes or so during the day. I have started having the caregivers and me getting her up so she can go to the bathroom before she has an accident. With Alzheimer’s you have to change things from time to time. I’m praying this helps mom from having bowel accidents or at least not as many. We ate dinner at 5pm so the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm. So I’m hoping 6 hours was enough time for her to have her system cleaned out. Mom was quiet this evening as well plus I didn’t feel real good so I too was quiet. Mom was responsive when I talked to her but she did put up quit the fuss when I had her change her pants and panties after her number 1 bowel accident that she had after dinner. This was the first time she has had an accident that wasn’t after sleeping in a longtime. I also got some fussing when I had her change into her nightgown and take off her pants. Overall mom was quiet but happy today. Even though she puts up a fuss from time to time, it really is amazing how well mom has handled her condition over the 14 years it is a testament to how good a person she really is. I’m so proud that she is my mom and thank god for making me her son.
Monday July 11th 2011
Mom had a number 1 bowel accident this morning and wet the bed so Andrea had to replace the sheets but did also get mom washed. Mom also had another number 1 bowel accident this afternoon after napping but this time it was in the bathroom so the sheets were dry. Mom had eaten breakfast by the time I left to run some errands and spend time to myself. Today was a sunny but very hot day with temps hitting 100 so I did not go, hiking. Mom was up when I got back home around 3:30pm and that’s when she had her second accident. Since it was so hot today I didn’t take mom for a drive the heat index was around 115. Andrea told me mom was sleepy today. Mom and I watched some TV until dinner. Tonight was our first night of corn on the cob this summer. This is the time when corn on the cob is fresh and good just one of the nice things about summer in St Louis. Mom talked some over dinner about the squirrels but for the most part mom was quiet but responsive all day. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6pm and she was up until 1am. I wanted to see if giving that long after eating and drinking would help her from having a bowel accident overnight. She had 7 hours to let everything work through her system. I have now started having mom take off her pants after she puts her nightgown on every night. I did get some fussing when changing but mostly just confused. Overall mom has been in good spirits and responsive today.
Sunday July 10th 2011
Mom had a number 1 bowel accident overnight and again this afternoon after a nap. Today my friend Patti came over while I went to church. So mom was asleep when I left but Patti was able to get mom up and dressed along with getting her to eat breakfast and take her pills. So by the time I got back mom was sleeping but dressed with breakfast done I was happy Patti got all that done so I didn’t have to. After I got back I still waited long enough to let mom go to the bathroom twice before heading out on our drive. It was a sunny but hot day today thank god for AC. We drove along the river road to the Grafton visitor center. Mom was somewhat chatty on our drive we talked about the boats on the river and all the motorcycles but it was to hot to see very many people on their bike cycles although we did see some. We did see a lot of people at the water park in Grafton. Mom was in very good spirits on our drive and pretty much alert. As always I tell her I love her several times every day and it puts a smile on her. After our drive I fixed lunch where mom and I talked about the birds on the feeder then mom took a nap. It was after this nap that she had her bowel accident. It was now just to hot outside to take mom out the temps felt like 110 so I fixed dinner. Mom was quiet during dinner and this evening. The last time mom had anything to drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm I hope this longer time helps keep her from having another accident. Mom is still strong enough to walk around without any walker or cane which I thank god for. I did get some static when it came time for mom to change and take off her pants but that mostly came from confusion on why. Overall it has been a pretty good day for mom except for the bowel accidents.
Saturday July 9th 2011
Mom had a number 1 bowel accident overnight. Today she even got her bed wet and I had some trouble getting her to put on all dry underwear mom just wasn’t understanding and being confused. I did get her after staying at it then put on new bedding. I got mom up around 10:30am for breakfast. I really didn’t have much trouble getting mom to take off the nightgown and put her pants and shirt on after her accident earlier I left the pants off since she had the nightgown. Mom was quiet during breakfast not to many birds on the feeder. I waited awhile after breakfast so mom could get in at least 2 bathroom trips before going on our drive. Today was a mostly sunny day with temps a little warmer getting up to 90. Mom and I drove our normal drive up the river road to Grafton visitor center. Mom was somewhat chatty on our drive as we talked about all the boats on the water and the motorcycles. Today I saw the most boats on the river this year so far. I even saw a couple of sailboats, making me miss the days I use to sail. I know I’ve said this before but I do enjoy this drive with the water on the one side and cliffs on the other. It is like driving between my 2 loves sailing and climbing. I fixed lunch after we got back and mom talked about the birds on the feeder and the squirrels running up and down the tree. Mom didn’t take a nap today so we watched some TV but mom was quiet. I took mom for another drive to Sioux Passage Park before dinner and on this drive mom was responsive but we both were quiet. It was still sunny and temp was around 90 on this drive. During dinner mom talked about the squirrels and this evening she was quiet but I did get her laughing several times. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed at 10:30pm. Tonight I had her take the pants off after she put the nightgown on just incase she has another accident I can use the same pants. I did get some static on taking the pants off.
Friday July 8th 2011
Mom had a number 1 bowel accident overnight and one this afternoon after a nap. Andrea was able to get mom totally washed but said it was challenging. Mom had gotten up and had breakfast then was back in bed when I left to get in a short hike. It was a beautiful sunny morning, with temps in the 70’s and low humidly. I drove out to Columbia Bottoms Conservation Area to do a 2 mile hike. The wind was blowing some which helped to keep me cooler. Today I didn’t see as many birds on the first part of the hike and I mentioned that to god as I was hiking and all of a sudden I saw several birds. I do enjoy watching the birds fly around and listening to them as I walk. The corn fields that I see up there look like they are about ready for picking. I’m tempted to crab some as I hike by taking a little detour. I do enjoy corn on the cob and this is the season for it. I wish on days like today I had more time to hike we don’t get many days like this one in July. After my hike I made a stop at the grocery store and gas station. I had a very nice day on my time away and thank god for giving me such a nice day. Andrea said mom was up, pleasant and alert most of the day. Mom was up when I got home but went in to take a nap shortly afterwards which was nice for it gave me a chance to take a much needed shower. After moms nap we watched a little TV before eating dinner. Mom was quiet during dinner but in a pleasant mood. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed around midnight. After dinner we took a drive to Sioux Passage Park and mom was in good spirits but quiet and the same this evening although she was responsive. At midnight I did my thing of getting mom up out of her chair by asking for a hug then telling her she should go to the bathroom before getting ready for bed. I have found that this works best to get her up and going. I didn’t have any problem getting mom to change and I let her keep the pants on.
Thursday July 7th 2011
Mom did have a number 1 bowel accident overnight. I got up and ate breakfast before my phone interview which I did down in the basement where it would be quiet. Andrea said mom was sweet, alert and sort of chatty today and was up most of the 5 hours Andrea was here. I left after the interview I didn’t have a lot of time before Andrea was going to leave so I didn’t get much walking in today and it was humid and near 90 today. This morning while Andrea was here, I got ready for my interview so left Andrea and mom upstairs eating and talking. Mom was napping when I got back home at 2:15pm and by the time she got up it started to rain, so we didn’t get in a drive today. Mom was somewhat alert and talkative this afternoon and during dinner she talked about the flowers and rain outside. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6:30pm and she went to bed at 10pm. This evening mom was still in good spirits but quiet and I did get some fussing when it came to changing and her taking off the pants.
Wednesday July 6th 2011
Mom did have a number 1 bowel accident overnight and then again this afternoon after a nap. Andrea was able to get mom all washed with some fussing. Today Andrea and I together tried a no rinse shampoo cap to wash mom’s hair. I hugged mom and kept telling her I love her while Andrea put the cap on mom’s head and washed. This worked somewhat but mom wasn’t enjoying it. The no rinse shampoo cap is something we can use with mom dressed. Mom had eaten breakfast by the time I left this morning to spend a little time to myself before getting back by 1:30pm so I’m back before the pastor gets here. Andrea said mom was in pretty good spirits outside the cleaning. Shannon was here washing cloths and helped get mom changed after her number 1 bowel accident since I was talking to the pastor in the living room. I sat next to mom as the pastor talked to us both. Mom wasn’t real interested but with me putting my arm around her kept her in a fairly good mood. Mom seemed to listen more and pay more attention to what the pastor was saying when he started saying a prayer and she even said amen. The pastor was here for about a half hour. Since Shannon was still here when the pastor left I too took off for a short time. Mom had gone back in to take a nap after I left. I just ran a couple of errands. Mom and I took a short drive up to Sioux Passage Park after I got back and before dinner. During dinner mom talked about the birds outside and the squirrels. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6pm and she went to bed around 10:30pm. We just watched TV and laughed a little this evening and I really didn’t have any problems getting mom to change but I did let her keep her pants on.
Tuesday July 5th 2011
Mom did have a number 1 bowel accident overnight and then this afternoon after getting up from a nap. Andrea was able to get mom washed today with minimal fussing. After I took my shower mom had already eaten breakfast and was back in bed sleeping. Andrea said mom seemed to have missed her and told Andrea that she loved her. Mom was up about half the time Andrea was here but slept most of the 2 hours Schatcie was here but got up when she heard my voice when I got home. I ran some errands and spent a little time to myself. I was called by a company wanting to setup a phone interview when I was out and set one up for Thursday morning. So when I got home I didn’t take mom for a drive right away I was waiting to hear back on setting up the interview. Mom ended up taking an hour nap while I waited and when she woke up is when she had her bowel accident. We ate dinner shortly after she got up and talked about the birds on the feeder and how beautiful everything looked outside. The last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:30pm and she went to bed at 10:30pm. We did take a drive after the news to Sioux Passage Park. Mom was quiet and not always responsive on our drive. We then watch a talent show on TV and laughed a few times. I did get some static when I had mom brush and change into her nightgown and take off her pants. Overall though today mom has had a happy attitude but quiet at times.
Monday July 4th 2011
Mom did not have any bowel accidents overnight or today. I got mom up around 10am for breakfast. Mom somehow found a white slip and had put it on under her nightgown overnight which made for a bit of a challenge to get her dressed. Andrea took the day off today so it was just mom and I until my friend Patti came by at 1:30pm. Mom was fairly quiet during breakfast and took her pills with no problem. It was a cloudy rainy morning but I did take mom out for a short drive in between rain. We talked about how green everything looked and mom was in a happy sweet mood. Mom watched TV with me all morning and was finishing lunch when Patti got here. Mom ended up sleeping most of the 3 hours Patti was here. I took off to run some errands and spend a little time to myself. I got back at 4:30pm but did not take mom for anymore drives today. We ate dinner around 5:30pm so the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6pm. During dinner we talked about the birds feeding and the watched TV the rest of the night. We watched the fireworks special on NBC then went outside and watched the Florissant fireworks displace from moms back porch. She really enjoys the fireworks but this was the first year she didn’t like the noise in past years she enjoyed the load noise the fireworks make as well. Mom has been in a happy sweet mood most of the day today although she is still confused on things. Mom went to bed around midnight and I did get some static when it came to changing into her nightgown and taking off her pants.
Sunday July 3rd 2011
Mom did not have any bowel accidents overnight or today. I got mom up today at 10:30am after my church program on TV. I had no fussing when I had mom get dressed I just had to tell her what to do. As we ate breakfast mom talked about the squirrels outside and she took her pills fairly fast. We waited as normal for mom to go to the bathroom 2 times before heading out on our drive. It was partly sunny with temps getting into the mid 90’s. We drove along the river road to the Grafton visitor center. We saw several boats out on the river especially on the way back. The boats where all sizes from jet skies to an 80 foot yacht but did not see any sailboats on the river. As normal on a good day there were countless motorcycles and even several people riding their bicycles on this hot day. Mom was in pretty good spirits for most of the drive of course as always I told her I love her several times through out the drive and day. Mom was also responsive but confused on some things. I thank god that she can still go to the bathroom by herself even at the visitor center. I fixed our lunch when we got back and mom and I both where getting a kick out of watching the squirrel try and figure how to get to the bird food in the feeder he never did. We have it setup so only the birds can get to it but it was fun watching the squirrel try. Mom took a short nap after lunch then we watched some TV before dinner since it started storming and we couldn’t go for a drive. During dinner mom was fairly quiet I think she was getting tired. She went in after dinner and took a short nap before getting up and watching TV with me. The last time I gave mom any food was at 6pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm. I had no fussing when it came to mom brushing her teeth or changing of course I let her keep the paqnts on since Andrea will not be washing her tomorrow.
Saturday July 2nd 2011
Mom did not have any bowel accidents overnight or today. I got mom up around 10:30am and had no problem getting her to change out of her nightgown and put her shirt on. During breakfast mom was quiet but responsive. I had mom go to the bathroom a couple of times before leaving on our drive. We drove up to the Grafton visitor center along the river road. It was a sunny and hot day, the temp got up to 99 and humid. With the house, visitor center and car all having air conditioning mom wasn’t in the heat very long and handled it just fine she is still physically strong at 89 years just not mentally strong. Mom and I talked about the boats, motorcycles and how big the river is as we drove. I also told her several times that I love her and enjoy spending time with her which is true and I feel this also helps keep her wanting to live. It was a beautiful day as long as you hard air conditioning LOL. I fixed us lunch after our drive and mom talked about the birds and squirrels outside we also played with the fake bird making it sing she does get a kick out of that. Mom never took a nap today we were on the go from the time she got up. We did watch some TV after lunch and before our second drive. On our second drive we went to Sioux Passage Park and never stopped to get out. This is a short enough drive that I can get mom there and back without needing a bathroom break. Mom was pretty quiet and so was I on this drive. We had dinner after we got back so the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 6pm and she went to bed around 11:30pm. We just did our normal watching TV and laughing tonight. Mom was about her normal self tonight. I really didn’t have much trouble getting mom to brush or change into her nightgown. I just had to explain what to do.
Friday July 1st 2011
Mom did have a number 1 bowel accident overnight. It took Andrea awhile this morning but she was able to get all of mom washed. Mom was just finishing her pills when I left this morning. I ended up sleeping in so I didn’t have as much time to get in a hike plus it was too hot the temps where in the upper 90’s and humid today. Mom was up a lot of the time Andrea was here but was asleep when I got home at 1:30pm. Mom was sweet today with Andrea except for the washing. Mom got up shortly after I came home and after a couple bathroom breaks we took a drive. With me this afternoon at least mom was disconnected and not real responsive including our drive. It was hot but sunny so we drove to Columbia Bottom Conservation Area and then to Sioux Passage Park stopping at Columbia Bottom visitor center for a bathroom break. Mom was more talkative as we drove through Columbia Bottom Conservation Area. I fixed dinner when we got back so the last time mom had anything to eat or drink was at 5:15pm and she went to bed at 11:30pm. She was quiet during dinner but we talked more and laughed more this evening. I did get some static when I had mom brush her teeth and changing.
My journey with my mother through her Alzheimer's
