Alberta's Days

Last week I was fussing about the place she lives because she always asks if I will drive her to her home. It bothers me as I assume she hates it there and misses her own home. Wednesday I met with the social worker at Riverview Terrace as it is a large place that many people have recommended. I was disappointed when I saw the rooms as they went along corridors and the entire place reminded me of a hospital. They do have dogs, cats, birds and many plants to provide enjoyment for the residents however it is near downtown about 20 minutes from my house.

Most days I try to see my mom and take the newspaper that she likes to read she says. She asks, “Are you my daughter, Arla?” sometimes but other days she’s just pleased to have a visitor. She is nearly always sitting in the living room area in front of the television with several other women. She has a next door neighbor she tries to care for and helps her find her way at times. It is very nice of my mom as she enjoys being helpful.

One day last week Winnie, another resident, asked me if I’ve seen her suitcase as she lost it on her trip. I then learned from the staff that she always is looking for her suitcase and imagines she’s been on a trip. Other times she’s trying to call the bank because she thinks she’s missing checks. The troublesome part of these conversations is replaying them over and over until everyone is exhausted. Though my mom repeats herself constantly she is less anxious and enjoys other people around her.

I’m learning things too so when she says, “Are you going home to fix your husband lunch?” I answer yes rather than try to explain exactly what the situation is like I used to do. She reminds me a little of Grandpa Johanson and it’s hard to imagine how much she’s changed the past few years. Her life is down to eating and sleeping and the frightening part is that might be close to my daily activities with the addition of messing around on the computer. (Note to Brett and Cyd-take my computer with me when you drive me to my special care facility)

I’m taking it along to Leslie’s this weekend so her brain can help get the Memorial Day menu and activities listing down on paper and out to the family. Did I mention that Jill forwarded this job as she was headed to Mexico? This planning, organizing, discussing, critiquing part is much of the reunion fun. Are you in charge of the reunion shirts?