November 25, 2009

Can't believe how long it has been since we have updated.

We go to see CP every Wednesday and every other Saturday. He is so happy at the VA. As I said previously in my note, he spends a lot of time in the Library reading, drawing and talking to others. Every time we go to see him he is clean, well cared for and tells us how much he likes it there. He has been going on outings regularly with the activities group. He has gone to the rodeo, circus, movies, and out to eat.

Thanksgiving day I will go and pick him up and he will spend the day with us at Barb's sister's house. Thanksgiving day is Barb's Mom's 80th birthday. Cameron has gone back to New Jersey for the holiday and Barb's kids and grandkids have joined us for the holiday.

I will try to keep up with the blog over the next few weeks but it could be difficult. Cameron keeps me busy taking him places and on December 9, Barb will have a hysterectomy. Our 5th Anniversary is on the 3rd and am hoping to do something special that weekend, if I can work everything out.

Until next time.
Reid

October 10, 2009

Barb, Cameron and I went up to the VA home today to spend the afternoon with Pop. When we got there it was close to lunch time and we couldn't find him. It's a rather large facility, so it took a while until we tracked him down to the right location. We found him in the library, he was reading and it looked like he had been going back and forth between reading and drawing. He said that he loves the library, and he finds it a nice place to go and read and draw and visit. He was clean, clean shaven and so much better than before.

We signed him out and went out for lunch. It was VERY cold today the high only 35 which is 25 degrees colder than normal. After lunch we took Pop shopping he wanted some hard candy. Actually he wanted cough drops but they won't allow him to have them as they are considered medicine. After shopping we went back to the VA and spent time visiting, he showed Cameron his room and unit since this was Cameron's first visit. We didn't stay too long as tonight is Homecoming and Cameron has a date.

I asked Dad what he thought about living at the VA and he said it's a mighty fine place, they serve good food and I have everything I could ever want and all that I need. He did go on on all day outing on Thursday but he can't remember where they went. I'm so glad to know that he is going to be going out again. Cameron doesn't have school on Friday so probably will try to come up and see him again then.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Today was moving day to the VA. Pop was bright and chipper this morning and said he was looking forward to his new home. We arrived at the VA at 8:57 and our appointment was at 9:00. We were greeted by a whole team. They assisted us in unloading Pop's belongings. Laundry brought out baskets and took all of his belongings and told us they would make sure that everything was properly labeled. Second maintenance took his TV, radio, razor and photos. A nurses aid took Dad to show him his new room and our social worker met with Barb and I.



After we met with the social worker we were taken to the business office to fill out the paperwork. We then met with a VA rep who told us he would be seeing if Pop qualified for any benefits he is not currently receiving. Next we met with the medical director and we were very impressed with him. The social worker came back and reviewed all the rules, patient rights and general information. Then they took us to see Pop in his new room. It's very nice! He was really happy and went on and on about what a beautiful, nice, and big facility it is. The head nurse for Unit A came and met with us and told us what type of communications we can expect from them. We asked about bathing, and we were told that bathing is not an option. I explained what had happened at the other facility and they couldn't believe it. Before I could even say anything about him changing his clothing daily she said, and every night we go into each resident's room and remove the clothing they wore that day. It takes about 48 hours for it to cycle through the laundry.

When we left Pop was watching TV and anxiously awaiting his first meal at the VA. We have been invited to family Fall Festival day on Saturday at 4:00 and look forward to it.

When I left the VA today I finally felt as though I have found someone that will be taking care of Pop as good as Barb and I have for the past couple of years. It is very sad to realize that this is probably where Pop will spend the remainder of his life. But, I'm also very relieved to know that the VA home treats their residents like royalty. I don't know if all VA's are the same, but the Missouri VA home in Cameron is a top notch facility. Even Pop noticed the difference.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Faxed the nursing home this morning to remind them that we were picking up Pop at 4:00. Told them that we needed his discharge papers, meds and someone to inventory his belongings and that were going to take him home for the night and then to the VA in the morning.

Barb and I both got there at exactly 4:00, they had Pop's discharge papers ready. Went in to see him and he was laying on the bed and there was a lady sitting in his rocker. She told us that she was his mother-in-law and was visiting him. He said no you are my daughter-in-law's mother. Then he said right Barbara? When she told him we didn't know her then he said, oh I guess we aren't related. M'am what is your name? She said Fern.

We did the inventory, got Pop packed up and Fern even helped us though we told her we were doing fine. She assisted me in taking Pop's clothes off of hangers while Barb did the inventory checklist. We are short a few clothing pieces, so they are supposed to call when they find them.

After we left the nursing home Barb got a call from the VA and they were frantic. Said that the nursing home had called and told them CP was on his way. They said that they didn't do evening admissions. Barb told them that we knew and that we were told that CP was to be there at 9:00 tomorrow. Can't believe this place was recommended to us by people we know. So glad to get Pop out of there.

We ate dinner, got Pop showered and shaved, got all his clothes washed and dried and then Pop was worn out. I noticed tonight how much more frail he is than he was in February when he first moved in with us. I had to stay in the bathroom with him the whole time he was in the shower, he is just too unsteady on his feet.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

I have promised Cam to take him somewhere this evening so Barb went over to see Pop. He had on clean clothing but needs a shave again. Barb informed them that he is moving out tomorrow and will spend the night at our house before going to the VA. Barb told Pop that there was an opening at the VA and he said he looks forward to the canteen and needs lots of quarters for candy.

We are anxious for tomorrow!

Monday, September 28. 2009

The VA called and they have an opening and Pop can move in on Thursday. Normally they only give you 24 hour notice but since the admissions director had a conflict they delayed it until then. That gives us time to get things coordinated.

This will be a huge relief.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Stopped in to see Pop. He was in clean clothes and so hope all is well. We took him out for a milkshake. Had a nice visit. Will continue to be in close contact!

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Due to work schedules and with helping Cameron with school etc. did not get up to see Pop until this afternoon. I'm livid! Pop still has not been bathed or shaved. I asked Barb to find out how we report them since she has a friend who has lodged complaints against another facility.

Okay, we called the state and lodged a complaint, they had an investigator call within 20 minutes of calling them. The investigator will be making a surprise visit to the facility tomorrow.

Went back to the nursing home this evening, Barb cut Pop's hair, I got him cleaned up and clothes changed. Will go back again tomorrow!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

We got an email from the VA today and Pop is now #4 on the list. They sent us a list of the things he can and cannot have at the VA. We will be getting his admission paperwork ready so that when they call we can move quickly.

Monday, September 21, 009

Barb picked Pop up from the nursing home, grabbed some lunch for him and we met at our house. Pop was in clean clothes, but still had not shaved nor bathed. I assisted him in shaving and at least being presentable.

We went to the VA home. Barb describes the difference as being, "Pop lives in the Dollar Tree and is moving to Macy's!" He did very well on his assessment. They are going to allow him to be on the better waiting list. He is now #6 and they anticipate he could be here by the middle to end of October. What a relief!

I took him home and spoke to the director. I told her this wasn't what I expected when I put my Dad in here. I told them he hadn't bathed or been cared for since they took over his care and that it was unaceptable. She apologized and said that it won't happen again.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

After church Barb, Cameron and I went to the nursing home to take Pop out for lunch. We both popped a gasket! It was obvious today that Pop IS still in the same clothes, has not shaved or bathed. We insisted on seeing the bath book and they stated that he is to have a shower on Tuesday's and Friday's. However, they could not find in the book that he has had one. I got Pop changed and cleaned up. I will be speaking to the Alzheimer's unit director tomorrow.

Friday, Septebmer 18, 2009

I asked Barb to call the VA today to find out what we can do to speed up the process. They have it on their notes that Pop needs to be in a locked unit. She told them that he eventually will but that he's not there yet. They agreed to see him on Monday at 1:30 for an assessment. If he does well it will change his placement on the waiting list.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Stopped by this evening after work to just see how CP is doing. They were getting ready to have dinner and he was preoccupied knowing it was getting close to meal time. So after 45 minutes went home. Will go back on Saturday.

Was not sure but think that Pop is in the same clothes that he was in when we brought him in on Saturday. Barb and I will come back to see him on Sunday.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Went to see Pop today. He seems to be adjusting well. We took him out for a slurpee from the local QT. For those of you who live in NC it is like Sheetz. He loves the frozen coke slurpee!

Anyway we had a good visit.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Went over for lunch to see CP. He is adjusting well. He said it's the nicest place he has ever lived, 'cept for your basement. We went out into the garden for a while and visited and then he wanted to lay down and take a Sunday nap. Will go back and see him again tomorrow.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Moving Day...and it went well. CP helped us get it all packed and moved.

He is now living at:
Golden Living Center
CP Squires Room 320
106 Hospital Dr
Smithville, MO 64089
(816) 532-0888

We were there 4 hours at check-in and then went back around 5:30 for a while. Seems to be doing well.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Barbara's Notes:
Last night we unplugged the TV's and radio's before we went to bed. CP figured that out. He plugged in his radio and couldn't find the hidden remotes for the TV's. He turned on the radio very loud and kept us up part of the night again. Even when you point out the time of day CP no longer understands that this is not the right time of day to be watching TV or listening to the radio.

Kellie's Notes:
Went out for lunch today and walked around Liberty square today. Got home and played games

Barbara's Notes:
Reid, Cameron and I are all exhausted tonight. Reid and Cameron are going to bed early, I will stay up until 9:30 with CP in hopes of him sleeping through the night. CP is need of constant care. Tomorrow is the appointment with the doctor.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Barbara's Notes:
CP still got up several times in the night. Kept Cameron up. Cameron is growing frustrated, Reid and I have placed a call to the doctor. Perhaps it is time to change his meds. Hope to hear from the doctor by lunch time.

Kellie's Notes:
CP did fine today, we went out for two walks, and I tried but couldn't keep him awake several times during the day. He ate all of his breakfast and lunch.

Barbara's Notes:
Been a busy day. Dr. said that it is probably time to place CP in a nursing home. That this is going to continue. CP has the ability to "recover" from the events overnight while Reid, Cameron and I have to function during the day. Cameron's school work is beginning to suffer from all that is going on. We have an appointment with Dr. on Friday afternoon. We have called one of the nursing homes that we like in the area that has an Alzheimer's Unit and they have an opening in their Alzheimer's Unit. We will plan to see CP Friday and if it is his recommendation to go ahead and place CP at this time we will do so. Will know more on Friday.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Barbara's Notes:
CP kept us all up most of the night. We only got 3 hours of sleep. He is constantly turning the TV and radio on at the loudest volume possible, getting into things and just doing things that he shouldn't be doing the night. Cameron had to go to school on 3 hours of sleep and came home mid-day with a terrible headache due to lack of sleep. Reid and I had to go to work on 3 hours of sleep and it was difficult to function.

Kellies Notes:
CP ate all of his breakfast today. As you asked I kept him awake all day. He went to Alzheimer's Group today and afterwards we took a walk. We played one game of checkers.

Barbara's Notes:
After dinner it is difficult to keep CP awake. We are trying hard to keep him awake so that he will sleep all night. He is frustrated with us trying to keep him awake.

Monday, September 7, 2009

LABOR DAY!

We all slept late...except CP. LOL On weekdays when we have to get up early he sleeps until 8:00 or 8:30. On the weekends when we want to sleep late he gets up at 6:00 or 6:30. We have had to start hiding the TV remote when we go to bed or else he turns the TV on really loud when he gets up in the night.

He has been resting quite a while today. As I am writing this I am watching him across the room and he is doing something I have never seen him do. He seems intrigued by his hands. He is staring at them and watches as he opens and closes them repeatedly. He closed his eyes in rest and he has been making motions as if he were making something with his hands. This has been going on for about 20 minutes.

The drumming with his fingers on his legs and furniture continues as it has for the past couple of years but sometimes he slaps his legs really loud in time with music. It can be annoying at times if you are trying to have a conversation and he is doing that when you are all in the room together.

Alzheimer's is very challenging. We realize that likely the call will come from the VA in the next 6-8 weeks based on our last conversation with the admissions director. When the call comes it will cause many mixed emotions. It will be a relief to know that he will be where someone can care for him 24 hours a day on a greater level as he continues to deteriorate but it will also be a very sad time as well.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Today was a rather busy day. We went to church in the morning, out to lunch then home where CP took a nap. At 1:00 we headed back to the church to set-up for my parents 59th Wedding Anniversary Party. CP seemed to enjoy himself. My niece Jenni was there, she was the one that cared for him May - Aug., she went up and said hello to him and he told her hello. He then asked her if she'd ever met his son Reid. He didn't remember Jenni's name or that she used to care for him 8 hours a day. That was rather sad. Reid said that CP sat and visited with Mom and Dad and then he told Reid, "Those are nice people, who are they?" Reid told them that they are my parents. That was also a big surprise.

CP did well considering there were about 115 people that came to the party. We cleaned the church from the party then my parents, 3 siblings and several nieces and nephews all went out to eat dinner. (There were 20 of us) While we were at dinner we noted that again CP did not hum during the meal. We both are wondering if the background noise is enough of a distratction. We have read that people with Alzheimer's often hum because they hear voices or conversations from the past inside their head.

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Today we worked around the house. We ate dinner on the deck and that is the first time that CP didn't hum while eating. He grows more and more irritated with me daily and everything I say is wrong, everything Reid says is right. So, I have to tell Reid to tell CP things to keep peace in the house.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Elizabeth's Notes:
Didn't eat much breakfast today and he picked at his lunch. Due to the rain we weren't able to get a walk in today. We watched a movie that's about all since Reid came home early today.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
Today we played games, he did a lot of drawing and then wanted to watch tv. We did get a morning and afternoon walk. Since they didn't have the Alzheimer's group today I tried to engage him in more activities but he wasn't interested.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
CP didn't eat much for breakfast today. He couldn't find his handkerchiefs and is wearing two different socks, I don't think that one of them is his. He spent the day watching tv and reading everything on the screen or describing what he saw. I had trouble with him spitting food today.

Barbara's Notes:
CP is still reading everything on tv this evening. We tried to engage him in conversation and it didn't help. He is oblviously in a different time and place today.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Elizabeth's Notes:
CP and I walked twice today, he dozed a lot too.

Barbara's Notes:
Reid picked CP up at 1:30 for the doctor appointment. Doctor enocuraged us to place CP in the nursing home. Said that we have done all that we could have done and that we knew the time was coming but that it was sooner than expected. He told CP the things he'd been doing in the night and CP was surprised. He said he didn't want to be a bother to us. We told him that he wasn't being a bother that his safety had to come first and that we couldn't stay up all night caring for him and then work the following day. He seemed to understand.

After dinner he helped us pack for his move and told us what he did and didn't want to take with him. He said, "I'm going to a place like Ruamie and Evelyn lived in tomorrow."

Reid and I are sad for CP...but we realize that he won't remember all of this soon.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Kellie's Notes:

Today we played "Trouble" and he asked to play checkers but we couldn't find it. So will play it later this week. We went for 2 walks and he doodled a lot.

Barbara's Notes:
Tonight my sister came over so that we could sew things for my nephew's new business. Brenda hadn't seen CP in a couple of months. CP didn't remember her and thought she was one of his caregivers. She was rather surpised at the changes in him since she saw him last. I caught CP spitting on the floor again and told him it wasn't appropriate. He said that he need to get something out of his mouth. So, I took him to the sink and urged him to rinse his mouth out in the sink.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Elizabeth's notes:
Fairly quiet today. Didn't eat his breakfast, refused morning walk. Ate all of his lunch and did agree to an afternoon walk. He watched TV and I kept him awake as requested.

Barbara's notes:
Got home from work and he is talking to himself. Cameron tried to have a conversation with him but he went back to talking to himself. Reid had all of his salesmen over for dinner and that seemed to "wake" CP up. He interacted with everyone and seemed to enjoy telling stories. And, there were a few! LOL Everyone left at 8:30 and the activity tired CP. He went to bed at 8:40.

We are staying in close contact with the VA nursing home. They are now calling people who went on the waiting list in April of this year. CP qualified in May. So, they feel it will likely be sometime around November when they have an opening for him. It will be a very sad time for all of us, however we know that soon it will be in CP's best interest. The level of care is increasing and soon he will need care 24 hours a day. Most days we are giving him care from 7:00 am to 9:30 pm with a few bumps here and there. So, we just pray that when the time comes that he needs constant care that there will be a place waiting for him at the VA. I know how hard it will be for Reid, but also know that it will be mixed emotions when the time comes.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Rough night last night.

CP went to bed at 9:30. At 11:39 he got up and was wanting something to eat and drink. We helped him get and drink and tucked him safely back in bed. At 1:20 he got up and didn't know why he was up. Re-oriented him to the fact that it is the middle of the night and he needed to be in bed. Again, tucked him safely back in bed. At 4:15....we were rocketed out of bed at the sound of the TV and radio in his room at the loudest volume possible. He was fully dressed sitting in his recliner tapping his fingers on the arms of the chair. We turned the TV down, turned off the radio and asked what he was doing and he stated that he was wide awake. We again re-oriented him to the fact that it was in the middle of the night and tucked him back in one last time. He then got up at 6:30 to stay.

All day he was not himself, sure it is partly due to the lack of sleep. He is talking to himself and just not there. He wanted to take several naps today but we kept waking him up and telling him that he couldn't nap because we wanted him to sleep all night. He got a little frustrated with us over this because he is tired. We'll see how it works.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Today CP got into "stuff". He has always respected not getting into things that aren't his, however it is obvious that he has progressed and no longer knows what is his and what isn't.

Today he opened our mail, wrote on our mail, got into closets and drawers moving and rearranging things etc. We had to follow him all day and stop him from doing things he shouldn't do and re-orient him to things it was okay to do. Like drawing, reading, watching TV or listening to music.

All in all a very challenging day.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Elizabeth's Notes:
Was rainy and gloomy this morning so we weren't able to take our morning walk. He spent quite a bit of time reading his new Reader's Digest. After lunch the sun came out so we did go for a walk. He was fairly quiet today.

Barbara's Notes:
Tonight CP and I had to drive to meet Cameron and Reid to take Cameron his permission slip to attend a Civil Air Patrol event. When we got in the car, CP didn't pull the door hard enough so it didn't close tight. He opened the door and looked at me and asked me why the hell he was opening the door. I reminded him it didn't close tight so he said okay and closed it. After we met Reid and Cameron, Cameron went with his group, CP went with Reid, and I went to my mom's. After Reid and CP got home he was quiet and went to bed early.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
CP did good at group today. He said they played games and did exercises and had "good snacks". After we got home he rested for about 45 minutes and then we went on a walk. He was really tired when we got back so he just sat in his recliner.

Barbara's Notes:
Tonight Reid assisted CP with his shower time. His knees are bothering him and there is a noteable change in the edema in his ankles. We have been monitoring his salt intake so we will get him to the doctor next week if this continues. He was grumpy tonight too....he was trying to make his bed and it was bedtime. I told him not to worry about it that it would soon be bedtime. He said the bed looks better when it is made. I told him I agreed and then again told him that soon he would be getting into the bed and didn't need to make it. He told me to go to Hell.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
CP doodled a lot today. He seems out of sorts and doesn't want to walk or do any of our regular things. So we just visited and watched TV today.

Barbara's Notes:
Arrived home from work and CP was clearly out of sorts. He was watching TV but describing what he saw. "He is using eyedrops, and he is walking across the room to turn off the light, now he is walking to his chair etc." With each commercial that came on he read any words he saw out loud. After dinner we had to stop him from digging in the trash. We asked what he was looking for and he wanted something to draw on. We showed him his notebooks and he doesn't like them because they have lines on the paper. We showed him his notebook without the lines and seems content.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
CP had a good time at Alzheimer's group today. They did exercises and played memory games. He told me that he cheated so I'm not sure if or how he did. We took an afternoon walk and he rested and watched TV.

Monday, August 24, 2009

Kellie's notes:
CP watched TV this morning until time for our walk. He seemed more confused today and repeated himself a lot. We played tic tac toe and then he just wanted to watch the military channel. We did go for an afternoon walk.

CP ate all of his breakfast and lunch.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Barbara's Notes:

Reid is out of town in Portland at a trade show. I told CP that he needed to have a shower. I took him in and helped him get out his clothes and razor and laid them on the bathroom sink. I left the bathroom and went into the living room to wait. I went into the laundry room to switch clothes from the washer to the dryer. CP was yelling and cursing. He couldn't find the shower and was frustrated. He got out of his dirty clothes and put on clean underwear and t-shirt. I told him it was okay, showed him the shower and he started over. He said that he never wanted to live long enough to be a burden and that he felt that he was now a burden and wanted to just die. He had a little more trouble and the whole shower process took an hour. Afterwards he complained about how it takes him three times as long to do things as it should. I told him that no one was timing him and so it didn't really matter. It's the first time he has been so visibly frustrated with life.

Friday, August 21, 2009

Elizabeth's Notes:
CP played with his breakfast. When I was sure that he wasn't going to finish we went for a morning walk. Afterwards he watched TV and dozed. After lunch we went for a second walk and talked for a while sitting on the patio. Overall we had a good day.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
CP got a 1/2 hour exercise at group this morning. We stopped on the way home and had an ice cream cone.

I asked him what kind of things he likes to do and told him that maybe we could go on outings on Monday's. He said he loves to go to the movies, wants to go to the shooting range and shoot a pistol and likes to shop. I told him that I think we can go to the movies and out to eat, but I doubt that you would let him go shooting.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Barbara's Notes:
Took the day off. CP went to group on the activity bus. He was disappointed that he didn't win anything in Bingo today. When he came home he wanted to rest and watch TV. He was talkative after his nap.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
CP had a great day today. He took both walks with no complaints and we sat outside for several hours just talking. He was very talkative today. He did take an afternoon nap.

Monday, August 17, 2009

Kellie's Notes:
CP didn't like his breakfast, he ate the eggs and threw away the ham. He ate most of his lunch and took a nap. This afternoon we went for a walk and he had no complaints. I gave him a snack of cheese and crackers. Today has been great fun and learning about CP.

Friday, August 14, 2009

Jenni's Notes:

CP ate slow today. It took him 45 minutes to eat his pancakes. We took two walks and he didn't talk a whole lot and he seemed slower than usual today.

After lunch we went on a walk CP complained about going. We tried to watch a popeye video but couldn't get it to work.

I told CP that today was my last day. He said that I've been good company.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Jenni's Notes:

Kellie came today and learned the routine, I think she and CP will get along fine. I told CP that Kellie will be with him Mon-Thur and Elizabeth on Fri. He said that was fine.

No trouble getting CP to go to group today. He played bingo and they played a penny game. He won 23 penny's and was thrilled. They played a phrase game where they would say the beginning and have the partcipants finish it. (ex. a penny saved is...) They said that CP did really good at that game. They also had root beer floats for snack and he loved that.

He rested when we got home and then we went for a walk.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Jenni's Notes:

Today the bus for Alzheimer's group came at 8:30. CP wasn't too happy to find out that he is going to group 2 times a week now. But, when he saw the bus and met the driver they hit it off and he couldn't wait to go. He was happy that the new group has the same people in charge so he was okay with going. When he got home from group at 2:00 he smiled and said it was time for a nap. He talked for a while about dogs he saw on TV.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP was more interested in talking than eating breakfast. We had our usual morning and afternoon walks and we also sat on the patio for a while. He read for a while in the afternoon and was mostly quiet after lunch.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
I told CP that this is my last week. I'm going to miss him.

He ate breakfast in silence and then we went on our morning walk. He became very talkative and talked so much that he got short of breath. We had to stop a couple of times so it took longer than usual.

CP had the TV and radio blaring this afternoon. I asked which one he wanted to listen to and turned off the other. He took a nap and listened to the radio . After his nap he spent a long time playing with his cough drops. He did draw at lunch so was distracted and didn't eat much.

After our afternoon walk CP was quiet.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Jenni's notes:

CP was confused before breakfast, he just sat in his chair and stared at the wall. I had to remind him to go and sit at the table. I reminded him to shave and he told me he isn't going anywhere so he didn't need to. Then he changed his mind and did. After lunch he just sat at the table for about 20 minutes. I went to wash the dishes and when I was done he was still at the table.

CP spent a majority of the day sitting either at the table listening to the radio. The volume was so low though that I'm not sure how he could hear it. At 3:00 he turned the TV on for the first time today.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Jenni's Notes:

CP had no complaints about going to his Alzheimer's group today. They finished making a fish out of clay. They also made a dog out of golf balls and used the golf tee for a tail. CP didn't want his and gave it away.

After we got home from group he stretched out in his recliner because he'd had a long day.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Jenni's Notes:

CP is in a good mood today. After breakfast he was very talkataive. We went on a morning walk and he talked my ear off. After our walk CP sat down at the table and spent time drawing. Later he watched animal planet and really seemed to enjoy it.

After our afternoon walk he took a nap.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP ate breakfast and took a little longer than usual. He was very distracted drawing popeye. When I got his dishes I told him he needed to shave. He said, "After I rest". I reminded him after lunch.

CP really likes the stuffed dog he got in his happy meal. He has carried it everywhere with him today, including on our walk. After lunch we took a walk and he was very talkative, he wanted to trim your tree again. I told him that you probably had someone to do that. CP didn't watch TV at all today, he just listened to classical music.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
Today CP refused to drink out of a glass, he drank milk out of the carton. We went on our morning walk and he seemed winded. We stopped and he sat on his walker and rested. When we got back home he sat in the driveway and rested. We sat on the patio for a while but he kept dozing off so we came in and he napped.

He didn't want to walk in the afternoon.

Friday, July 31, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP was sleeping on top of his covers when I took him his breakfast. It took longer than usual to eat. We went on our walk and he was very quiet. Actually the only thing he did on the walk today was talk to the neighbor's dogs. Said he is feeling old and tired today.

After lunch he watched the Beverly Hillbillies and laughed really hard at them. He seemed to be enjoying himself. He didn't nap after lunch.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
No group today so we went on a walk and talked about the state park. After our walk we sat on the patio for about an hour. I told him that we were going on an "outing" to Burger King today since there wasn't any group and he said he couldn't wait. He told me he wanted a cheeseburger, onion rings and a strawberry shake!

While we were at Burger King he was distracted by the cars going through the drive-thru so it took awhile. On the way home he told me about all the different makes and models of cars he has owned. We went on a short walk and then he rested.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP told me he needs OJ for the vitamins but then refused it and drank a Coke. We went on a walk and he was talkative. We walked further today but I had to stop him from picking through peoples trash and recycling. He said he was just curious about what they had thrown away.

Today he talked about he can't believe he is 85. He said he never thought he would live that long. We walked again after lunch and he said he hoped to live a few more years. He seems to be talking alot about his age this week, he said something about it on Monday too.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
I had to wake CP this morning. we didn't not walk because of the rain. CP spent the morning listening to classical music while drawing and writing. Later he was mubling to himself but I never could hear what he was saying.

After lunch he spent the afternoon drawing popeye. I had to take his drawings away so that he would eat lunch today. At 3:00 he turned the TV on.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP was up and rearing to go this morning listening to the radio and watching the tv at the same time. He ate quick and said he was ready for a walk after I got my dishes done.

On our walk he talked to a neighbor who was pulling weeds. He was sitting on his walker and I told he we needed to keep going. He said he would rather just sit there. After our walke we sat on the patio for a while. He threw a ball for Lacey and said she needed the exercise.

Cp told me he has 2 kids, 4 grandkids and that his twin grandson's wives are both expecting. Is that true? We were outside for about and hour and a half. He started dozing off so we went in.

After lunch he watced Extreme Home Makeover and told me that those people were nice to do that and that they did a good job.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Jenni's notes:
He of course said he didn't want to go to group. He did have a good time and was talkative and ate well. They had fish, coleslaw and dessert. They carved whales out of clay but he won't bring it home until after the next group meeting when it is dry. They played bingo and CP won chocolate covered raisins.

On the way home he sang to me. "Kansas City, Kansas City here I come! They've god a lot of little ladies ther and I'm gonna get me one!"

There won't be group on July 30th.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

CP was confused last night. Before bed Reid and I heard him talking to someone. I went down and he was having a conversation with someone telling them how hard it is to stop smoking. It takes a lot of will power. "I don't think I have the will power to continue anymore so I guess I'm going to start smoking again." Then he'd start the conversation all over again.

Jenni's Notes:
I had to wake CP this morning. He refused coffee and OJ for breakfast and only wanted a Coke. On our walk he was quiet. He hummed and told me he was tired. When he rested he was talkative.

He sat in his reclinerand watched TV without the volume. He did some drawing today and mostly rested. I did sneak out a phone number for a "free book" that he'd seen on TV.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
Cp wasn't talkative at all today. We didn't go on a morning walk because of the rain. It would sprinkle off and on. Cp watched TV land and every once in a while he laughed at what he was watching.

Whe I made lunch he was drwing and writing on a napkin. He at and then decided he would go on an afternoon nap since it wasn't raining. He was quiet on the walk. When we got home he wanted a Coke and to sit in his chair and stretch out.

I caught him watching infomercials...but he didn't write down any phone numbers. HA HA

Monday, July 20, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
I took down breakfast and he talked a little while about a TV show he was watching and how it was nothing like real life.

After breakfast we walked and he was very talkative. When we got back he rested and watched TV.

It took him longer than usual to eat lunch. when went back down to get his dishes after cleaning the kitche he was dozing at the table staring at his empty plate. When I picked up his dishes he went and got in his recliner.

Friday, July 19, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP was in a good mood. He ate quickly. He spent part of the morning writing notes on napkins about Morrow Mountain State Park. He talked my ear off about his carvings. When I went up to wash dishes I told he we were going for a walk, when I came back down he was ready. When we got home he stretched out and watch TV said he "deserved it" because of his walk.

Had to wake him up for his lunch he had moved from the recliner to the bed. after lunce he said he didn't need to go for a walk. Instead we went out and sat on the patio for a about an hour. He started dozing off so we came back in and he took a nap.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP did really well. he was talkative and looked forward to going to group.

When I picked him up from group he was playing old maid. He seemed to be really enjoying himself. When Fran took the old maid from his hand he started laughing. They said he did really good today. He ate well, and was talkative. on our way home he was kind of quiet. he was reading all of the street signs to himself softly.

Once we got home he sat in his recliner and said it was good to rest at home. He turned on the tv and about 30 minutes later he was asleep.

The group coordinator suggested that CP might want to also attend the Tues. group. It is larger and said that there are more individuals that can interact with him.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP is doing better. He is more talkative and in a good mood. On our walk he saw the black cat again. It followed us and CP found that amusing. It finally came up to CP and he pet it.

When we got to one point today he told me that he needed to be careful at that spot because he had fallen there when Nancy was with him. A neighbor came out and talked to us for a while. CP told me he thought she was a nice lady to talk to us and that there aren't a lot of people in this neighborhood.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
Cp has been quiet most of the day. He didn't have anything to sure during or after breakfast. He didn't even say good morning this morning.

Our walk was later this morning as it was sprinkling. When we did walk he himmed. I tried to start conversations but he only responded with 2-3 words.

On our afternoon walk he was the same. He stopped walking and sat down a lot sooner than normal. He said he didn't want to walk because he wasn't feeling well. Said he was tired. When we got home he sat in his recliner. 20 minutes later he got on the bed and took a nap.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP started out talkative today but by afternoon was quiet.

When I took his breakfast down he was watching the news and seemed very alert. He was talking alot and I had to cut him off so that he would eat. When I went up to do the dishes I told him that after I was done we would go on our morning walk. He complained some. He hasn't complained about walking in a long time. When I went down after the dishes were done he was ready to go. He was talkative on our walk and told me about the state park, trees and dogs.

Lunch took longer than usual today. No complaints about our afternoon walk. He wanted to rest afterwards and didn't even turn the TV on.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
Cp was quiet today. He ate his breakfast really quick. He didn't have any distractions I guess. After breakfast we walked and he was walking at a faster pace.

Reid came home at noon so I left at 12:30.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Jenni's Notes:

Cp seemed really good today. More talkative and alert. He didn't eat a lot this morning though, he only ate a granola bar.



I took him to the Alzheimer's activity group as usual, he always complains until I remind him that he likes it. He said, "Well, ok...I'll try anything once." At group they carved fish out of soap and played bingo. CP won a quite a lot. He got a stuffed animal, a mug, junior mints, fruit and candy. He was thrilled with his winnings!

On the ride home he was extremely talkative. I almost couldn't get a word in. When we got home he sat in his recliner and was sleeping when I took him his snack.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
CP seemed really quiet this morning. When I woke him up I told him it was time to get up. He asked what time it was and I told him 8 am. He said it was a short night. He ate his breakfast in complete silence no TV or radio. He was quiet on our walk. He was very concerned that he saw 4th of July trash in the streets and had me clean it up. When we got back from our walk I asked if he would like to sit out on the patio and he said he'd rather rest in his recliner.

When I fixed lunch he was dozing off in his recliner, as soon as I told him I had his lunch he was wide awake and ready to eat. On our afternoon walk he was more talkative. He even stopped and barked at the neighbors dogs. He talked about his beagles.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Jenni's Notes:
This morning I had to wake CP up. He seemed in a good mood. I made him scrambled egss and he was talkative. I went upstairs to clean up from cooking breakfast and heard him banging on the trash can. He had thrown away his breakfast. From what I could see he ate his hashbrowns and bacon but threw away the eggs. I went back and finished the dishes and then when I went back down he was asleep on the bed. I woke him and told him it was time for our morning walk. He didn't complain. He talked a little on our walk, but said that we wanted to stop sooner because he wasn't feeling good. So we only walked 6 houses down. (He said that was shorter, but that is our normal walk) When I asked how he was feeling he said tired.

Throughout the day he just sat in front of TV watching the science channel. He got distracted at lunch because of a show on the geography channel about NC. At 3 he had a snack of cheese and crackers. It was a good day.

Tuesday, June 30

Jenni's notes:
CP is talkative today but at first this morning seemed out of it. I took him his breakfast ahd he was watching Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. I had to remind him to eat.

After finishing the dishes he was writing on a napkin. I told him we needed to go for a walk and he said that I had to hang on while he finished writing. On our walk he stopped in all the neighbors yards to try and figure out what kind of trees they have. A cat came out of the sewer and followed us. CP stopped and pet it. CP thought it was funny that it was following us home. Today he couldn't remember which house he lives in. He stopped at every driveway and asked if this is where he lived. He'd say, "I feel like I should stop here. Is this my son's house?" I would remind him he lives at 8820. But, then he would do that again at the next house.

I took him his lunch and after 45 minutes he had only eaten 2 bies. He was too busy reading his Reader's Digest.

Monday, June 29

Jenni's notes:
CP seemed quiet today. At breakfast he had french toast and OJ. He filled the glass to the rim and I thought he was going to spill it. After breakfast we went on a walk. When we got back he said he just wanted to watch TV. He turned on the movie "My Cousin Vinny". When I wasked him if he wanted to go outside on the patio he said he'd rather watch the movie.

At lunch he did something different. He drank milk with his lunch. Usually he wants a Coke. After our afternoon walk he wanted another glass of milk. He kept the TV off and just stared at the quiet TV. I asked if he wanted to watch it and he said ok.

Friday, June 26

Jenni's notes:
CP was in a really good mood today! When I took his breakfast down he was very enthusiastic about how good it looked. He ate quickly and was ready for a walk after I finished the dishes. He told me that he felt good this morning and that's why he was walking so fast.

After lunch we went on a short walk and he went at a normal pace. It might be because it was a little warmer. He was very talkative. He kept guessing why types of trees were in the yards were passing.

He spent the afternoon reading his NC magazine.

Thursday, June 25

Jenni's notes:
CP did well at Break Time today. He said he was looking forward to going. They made a hat, flat and star for the 4th of July. I hung them all on his bulletin board. (No break time next week!)

CP was good today about telling me how to get back home. When we got in the car he told me we were going to Somerbrook. The when he saw the Somerbrook sign he told me to turn right and then told me he lives at 8820. He also said, "It's the one with the flag!"

Tuesday, June 23

Jenni's notes:
CP locked himself out of the bathroom again this morning!

We went on a nice walk this morning. It was so nice out that we sat on the patio for about an hour. He was very talkative but then he started dozing off.

After lunch we walked again, it was getting warmer so we didn't go very far. When we came back he said he needed to rest. He got in his recliner and watched Soap Opera's all afternoon.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Jenni's notes:

After our morning walk CP went and sat in his recliner and I went to let Lacey out. He started hollering up the stairs that he needed a drink. I went and helped him get something out of his refrigerator. He seemed to have forgotten that he had his own fridge. He also locked himself out of the bathroom.

Friday, June 19

Jenni's notes:
We went for a short walk this morning. CP said it was too hot to go real far. He told me stories about Morrow Mountain and showed me the brochure Reid got this week when he was there on business.

After lunch he put on a long sleeve shirt over the short sleeved one. I asked if he was cold and he said no. I asked why he had 2 shirts on and he said, "Well, I guess I do. I'm not cold, I'm actually a little warm!!!"

Thursday, June 18

The activity director at Break Time said that it went well today. CP is one of the "Wittiest" ones they have ever had. He told them all about Morrow Mountain.

He was excited that he won 2 prizes in Bingo. A candy bar and some cologne. He said he has never won anything in his life and so that made it fun. He looks forward to going back next week.

Tuesday, June 16

Jenni's notes:
Today we decided to get out of the house. It is raining again! We went to Dollar General and CP got cough drops. He looked at the dog bones and asked me if he had a dog. I told him no that he lived with Reid and Barbara and they have a dog, Lacey. He bought her a rawhide bone.

I asked him if he wanted to go to Burger King or Hardees for lunch, he said that he would rather eat something from home. When we got home he said he wanted chips, a hotdog and applesauce.

After lunch...he went back to watching cartoons.

Friday, June 12

Today went well. Jenni and CP didn't go on a morning walk today because it rained almost all day. It did break for a while in the afternoon so they did walk a little. He isn't complaining much anymore about having to take walks.

In the afternoon after lunch he turned on "Noggin" and watched kids cartoons for the rest of the day. At his afternoon snack time he was humming and singing with the kids.

Thursday, June 11

CP did well at Break Time. He did complain about it before leaving but Jenni asked him to just "try" it this week. He seemed to have a good time. They painted lion masks, did chair exercises, had lasagna for lunch, corn and breadsticks...but his favorite was the apple pie.

After lunch they played group activity games. He had a good time and is willing to go back next week.

Wednesday, June 10

This morning CP was overly sleepy. While the physical therapist was here he was dozing off. Jenni took ice down for his shoulder after his therapy session and he was sleeping again.

Later Jenni and CP played checkers and he was more alert. He didn't eat much lunch and said it was cold, but he didn't want it heated up either.

Tomorrow he will be going to the first "Break Time" in Liberty. This is an Alzheimer's Activity Group.

Tuesday, June 9

Nothing out of the ordinary today. CP’s appetite has returned to normal, he is sleeping all night and I am amazed at the difference the Seroquel (Bi-Polar med) is making.

Monday, June 8

The physical therapist and caregiver both noted a huge mental change in CP. He is more social, and talks their legs off today. Physical therapy will end on Wednesday as he has improved and will not get the full range of motion back in his shoulder. When I got home from work he was his old “jolly” self.

Sunday, June 7

I've been extremely busy so I'm slow on updating.

Well the new medicine that CP is taking has started helping a lot. It is a Bi-Polar med and he seems to be coming out of the depression, he is more aware of his surroundings. For the first time he knew what Reid does for a living. Generally he thinks he is a teacher or sells insurance but today he remembered that he is selling Greenhouses. He is much more talkative today as well.

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Today was quiet, forgot to write yesterday that the doctor started CP on a new medicine. This medicine is taken at bedtime and will help him sleep through the night and is also an anti-depressant. I will be talking to the doctor on Monday to see if there is any change. This came about because we talked about CP's withdrawl from interaction, and refusal to socialize. When we invite him to have dinner upstairs with us he refuses. He says that he is a burden and doesn't want to intrude on our time. We have assured him that we want to spend time with him. But, we always have to go down to his room to spend time with him. Dr. N said that this is depression that is typical with Alzheimer's and that is why he started the new meds.

CP slept all night last night, and he most of the day. This is not unusual, this is becoming the "norm". This evening we convinced him to come upstairs for dinner with us, it will have to be the last time. From now on we will have to start going down to have dinner in his room. He cannot negotiate the stairs at all. He got angry when Reid said that we would just come down. He is upset that his body is no longer cooperating with him. Another option, which we all think is a nice one, is for us to eat on the patio. CP likes it when we do that.

Doctor Appt.

CP had an appointment this afternoon, he was very quiet today. This is unusual. All the way to the doctor he didn't speak to me. When we got to the doctor he said nothing, when we got into the exam room he asked me if he was seeing the doctor and I told him that he was. He said, "He is a nice man, the best doctor I've ever had."

CP remained quiet all during the exam. We discussed his night confusion, delirium, and the efforts we have taken to ensure his safety. We have alarms on all exterior doors so that if the doors are opened we will be alerted instantly.

I informed the doctor that CP is still 33 on the waiting list for the VA and he tells me that we have to begin looking at other facilities. He wants him on 2-3 waiting lists so we will begin looking at other facilities ASAP. We trust the doctor very much. CP told him, "But, I don't want to go live anywhere else, I like living with Reid and Barbara." Dr. N explained that as his physician he has to be concerned about his safety. He explained to him that when he gets confused that he has the fight or flight mentality and that due to the Alzheimer's he chooses flight.

Reid and I are very sad to hear this. We had really hoped that CP could live with us for about a year, it is apparent that more than likely CP will be going into a home by the fall (according to the doctor).

Thursday, May 28, 2009

I took today off to rest. I have been out of town for the past week and on the go every minute that I was gone. So, I gave the caregiver the day off and stayed home in my jammies until noon and just hung out with CP. He didn't realize that I'd been gone either.

At lunch time we went to see Reid at work. He didn't want to get out of the car when we got there, so Reid came out and we all went out and got something to eat together. CP was crabby with me today, that hasn't happened in a long, long, long time.

He woke at midnight last night and was afraid, didn't know where he was and opened the garage doors to get our attention. Reid told him that he was safe, was in our home and able to calm him down. He stayed with him for a while to make sure he was okay.

May 21-25, 2009

Last night Reid called my sister, Brenda, she lives 1/2 mile from the nursing home. He asked her to go check on CP today, she is going to go at 7am 12pm and 4pm. Reid is very uneasy about this.


At 10:00am I talked to my mom and dad. Everyone in the family has decided that Reid will not enjoy his trip to PA if he is worried about his dad. So, my wonderful family stepped up to the plate. Reid had CP discharged from the nursing home at 12:00 pm and took him home. My niece, who is studying to be an RN came and stayed until 10:00 Saturday morning, at that time my mom and dad came and stayed with him until 10:00 Sunday evening when Reid returned from PA.

Reid and I are so thankful for my family. They didn't have to do that for us, but they did...that is just who they are! AWESOME...in my book. It is even more amazing when you consider that my mom is battling cancer and undergoing treatments.

While we are gone, CP doesn't eat as well as he normally does. When Reid returned he doesn't even realize that Reid has been gone.

Wednesday, May 20

Reid dropped me off at the airport for my trip to Pennsylvania for Ryan's wedding. Afterwards he took CP to the nursing home where he will receive respite care during our absence.

After work, Reid went to see CP. It was about 6:30 and CP has finished eating dinner, he is despondant and does not even acknowledge Reid's presence. When he dropped him off he discovered that the condition of the facility was not what it was when I checked it out, CP's room was dirty and things didn't seem "right".

Sunday

This morning we all went to church, after church he shook my Dad's hand and said, "Hope you have a good week Mr. Squires." We came home and had a snack then at 1:30 went to my brother's house for a graduation party. CP loved the BBQ chicken. He had a terrible time negotiating the stairs, so this will be the last time he can go to that brothers' house. While we were eating we were talking about Reid and he said to me, "Is my husband being good to you? If he isn't tell me and I'll whip him." He is really getting confused about relationships.

Hanging Out

Last September for my birthday Reid gave me a gift certificate for a day at a local Spa. So, I held onto it figuring that the week before the wedding would be a good time to pamper myself.

Reid and CP spent the day together. They went out to lunch aroun 11;30 and then shopping. He tires easily so they didn't stay out too long. After they got home he read his Reader's Digest most of the afternoon.

Nancy's last day

CP knows that he is going to a nursing home while we are in PA. He is starting to worry that we will rent out his room while he is gone. Nancy and Jennifer assured him that we don't want strangers living in our house and this is just temporary.

Nancy's notes:
PT went well, he allowed us to apply ice for 20 minutes afterwards. He took an hour to eat his lunch today and then we took a short walk. With the approaching storms we didn't want to venture far from the house. After lunch CP didn't want to do much. He preferred to watch TV and relax.

It has been a pleasure taking care of CP and hope that he and Jennifer get along as well.

Went out for ice cream

Nancy's notes:
Today Jennifer joined us, she will be taking over CP's care next week. The therapist came and he cooperated with her and did his exercises. He said he has created a new snack, peanut butter on shredded wheat. We went for a walk, played checkers and then the three of us went out for ice cream. CP shure loves his ice cream.

Catching Up

I got busy yesterday and forgot to write. Yesterday was interesting to say the least.

Dr. Niewald has ordered physical therapy for CP's torn rotator cuff. He absolutely pitched a fit with me and yelled at me and told me I was wasting his money. I told him that the doctor said if he doesn't do it that his arm will freeze up and he will lose the use of his right arm and that we'd have to wipe his butt and put him in a wheelchair. He said, "Well...I don't want that so I guess I don't have a choice." Typical things during the rest of day, nothing out of the ordinary.

Today - He had his first physical therapy and Deon said he did good. They rated him as a fall risk. Which is no surprise. Doing ice packs and exercises 2 times a day.

Mother's Day

We went to church this morning and then we went to my Sister's for lunch. There were 27 there and CP did fine. He remembers a few names but mostly calls them "my" people. He seemed to enjoy just watching everyone.

For dinner we made chicken alfredo. CP loved it. He calls it chicken aflredocatchetor. I created a new dish. :D

He spent the day reading his Reader's digest. He loves it. We got him a subscription to the large print edition.

Fixed on tasks

Today was "date" day for me and Reid. We went and moved his furniture from the hall into his office. (ha ha what a date huh?) Oh well.

While we were gone, Jenni is going to stay with CP. Once again, we are still working on Popeye. He doesn't want to walk today and that is okay.

Friday

Nancy's notes:
CP is doing fine, very alert. He remembered beating me at checkers.

Reid came home from work at 11:30. He's worked long hours this week. When I got home from work he was mowing the grass. I fixed dinner and carried it down to CP. I told him that dinner was ready and he said, "I don't know what the point is. I may just lay down and die. I'm not useful to anyone!" I asked him if he'd had a bad day and he said, "Yes, I did. Well, no not really." I just ain't worth a damn to anyone. I go out and tell Reid and he explains that before he got home from work CP told Nancy that he was going to go mow the yard for Reid. Nancy naturally won't let him. CP watches Reid mow out the window and feels left out and useless.

I gave it some thought and decided that I could help him feel useful. I cooked dinner on the grill and went down and told him he had to wash the patio table so we could eat outside. He said, "I'd be glad to do that." However, when I ask him he is drawing Popeye. After 10 minutes I clean it myself. I tell him to come eat it is getting cold. He is still drawing Popeye. He starts to get up, and says "Oh me, I forgot to draw his pipe." He sits down and starts drawing again. I tell him that it will be waiting for him after dinner. He starts to get up and stops and starts drawing agin. Finally I gently take the pen from his hand and give him his cane and tell him Reid is waiting at the dinner table.

After dinner, he returns to his chair and starts diligently working on Popeye again. At 8:30 Reid goes down to check on him. He is still at the desk drawing. He generally goes to bed at 9:30 without any trouble so we go to our room to watch a movie. We fell asleep during the movie. I woke up at midnight and went to get a drink. Through the baby monitor I hear CP's tv. I go to check on him and he has fallen asleep sitting at the desk working on Popeye.

I cannot see him breathing...he is so quiet that I panic and think he is dead. I'm afraid to touch him. He takes a deep breath and my heart skips a beat. LOL now I'm afraid to wake him for fear I'll scare him to death. I gently touch his arm and wake him up and he is stiff from sitting so long. He gets up and goes to bed.

Busy Day

Nancy's notes:
We took 3 short walks today. CP got a little tired, stopped to rest and then he wanted to go on. He said he is not "swimmyheaded" today just a little tired. We sat out on the patio under the umbrella and played checkers.

At 1:30 we went to Sheridan's for ice cream. CP loved going out and getting ice cream. He even remembered that you said I could take him again. At the end of my shift he is quiet, sitting in his easy chair watching tv and reading the Missouri Conservation magazine. He is tired after our busy day.

Feeling Useless

CP slept late again this morning but woke with some energy. He and Nancy went for 2 walks, played checkers and went out for ice cream.

Nancy's Notes:
Today was a good day. CP is not "swimmyheaded" but he did get tired on the walk. I encouraged him to turn back for home and he didn't want to so we went one house further. After we got home we sat out in the back yard on the patio, I put the umbrella up so that he could sit in the shade. While we were sitting there he asked me if this was Reid's house. I gave him a Missouri Conservation magazine and he seems to be enjoying learning something new.

When I got home at 5:00 Reid was mowing. I carried in the groceries, fixed CP's dinner and he wanted to eat in "his room". I took it down to him and he was in a grumpy mood. He told me that he might as well just lay down and die. Said, "I've lived beyond being useful to anyone." I asked him if he'd had a bad and and he said that he had. I asked him what made it a bad day and he said that all my life all I wanted to do was retire and have nothing to do. Now that that's where I am...I hate it.

We are going to try to get him out of the house more often. We'll see if that helps!

Just relaxing

CP was worn out from the doctor's appointment, going out to dinner and the band concert. He slept in late. He read and watched TV, did take 2 walks and played a game of checkers.

Nothing out of the ordinary.

May 5

When Reid went out to get the newspaper at 5:00 CP was already up and the light was on in his room. He was listening to country music on the radio.

Nancy arrived as usual at 7:50 and said that today he was done with breakfast in 30 minutes. They went for a short walk and then he had lunch, again was done eating in 30 minutes. I got home at 1:00 to take him to his doctor appointment.

Dr. Appointment:
Follow-up on his shoulder tests show he has torn his rotator cuff. Due to age, Alzheimer's and Hydrocephalus no one would consider operating. So, we will begin Physical Therapy. Since he is "home bound" they will send someone to the house.

We discuss the fall last week and the fact that we need to have a DNR at the home in case something should happen when the caregiver is taking care of him. CP told the doctor that he wanted to die naturally if he should have a heart attack or stroke. I told him that Reid and Susannah are both in agreement. So, we have a signed DNR at the house.

We went home, CP took a 30 minute nap and then he and I went out for tacos for cinco de mayo. Then we went to see my 12 year old nephew's 6th grade band concert. CP loved it. Reid has been in Sales Meetings all week, his salesmen are in from CA, GA, TN, TX and othe places so tonight they all went to a KC Royals Baseball game.

Monday

Gotta catch up.

Sunday - kinda quiet, Jenni came and stayed with CP while Reid and I went to a function with his new employer. He was "typically" forgetful but nothing out of the ordinary.

Monday:
CP is complaining of being "swimmyheaded" his left ear and eye bothering him. Called the doctor and the doctor and he said that unless it became evident that he was having a heart attack or stroke that he'd see him on Tues. at his next regularly scheduled appointment. He is somewhat confused, took him from 7:15 until 8:40 to eat breakfast and from 12:15 to 1:140 to eat lunch. He wanted dinner downstairs so I took it down at 5:45. He didn't finish eating until 7:00. I heard him still up at 10:30 so went down to check on him, didn't want to take a chance he had fallen asleep in the recliner, and he was sitting at the table and eating peanut butter and crackers. (Reid was already in bed as he has a sore throat so I told him to stay away from CP.) I showed him the time and he went to bed at about 10:40.

Quiet Day

Well, it's Saturday evening and today has been relatively normal. Of course CP has forgotten some of the details he forgets on a daily basis but that has come to be expected. Tonight at 6:00 Reid was mowing and I was cooking dinner, CP went outside and was watching him so he stopped and asked if he needed anything. CP said, "Son, did you forget my dinner?" Reid explained that I was cooking and it would be there shortly. It wasn't an acusation, Reid said it was more like "hurt" that we forgot him.

Birthday Boys!

This will be a 2 part blog today. It is 10:33 am.

I had a thought in the night that perhaps CP's confusion was med related. Reid spoke with the doctor this morning and he said the he believes this is just the progression of the Alzheimer's. The confusion upon waking is typical of the progression of the disease.

Will write more later today.

It's 9:45 pm and part 2.

Nancy said that they had a good day. She took CP to Sheridan's for ice cream and then they walked arond the pet store and looked at the animals.

We went out to dinner at Granite City. CP and I shared a Bedda Chedda Burger and fries. He was very fixated on his meal. He divided all of his french fries into groups of three and dipped them in ketchup. After a while he changed and made them all groups of 4. When he had about 12 fries left he took the onions off of his hamburger and spent about 5 minutes cutting them up, he then spread ketchup on the onions. Next, he proceeded to dip his french fries into the ketchup and onions, when the fries were gone he at the ketchup onions. He took about 3-4 bites of his burger and said he was full. The waitress brought out a dessert for his birthday, a large chocolate chip cookie (the size of a dinner plate) with and ice cream scoop on top and a candle. He got all excited about having dessert and we gave him the ice cream so I could start cutting up the cookie. He ate 3-4 bits of the ice cream and then started cutting his burger up into small slices and dipping it into the ice cream. Reid finally said, "I'm full that was a big burger" and CP said I'm stuffed too and started eating again. So we decided that he thought he had to finish everything on his plate before we could leave so we both stood up and he just followed our lead.

In the car he was confused. Reid told him that when we got home we neended to give him his dinner meds. He said that he only takes them two times a day so he would just wait until morning. Reid said, "Pop your meds are at the house and we will get them when we get home." CP said, "I can get them tomorrow when I go home." Reid said, "Pop you live with us now." CP said, "Oh, I thought I was just visiting. That's right, I live with you now in your basement."

While laying in bed Reid and I were talking about the day. We both also noticed that CP wasn't using his right arm very much either. When he talked to the doctor earlier in the day we were both at work and so we didn't really have a chance to talk about what he had said. The CT scans show 2 TIA's. We have a follow-up appointment on Tuesday so will ask more questions about it then.

He's Afraid

Nancy called me at 8:45 this morning and said CP was a mess. He didn't know who he was, where he was and so I called Reid and he called CP. After talking to CP and getting him calmed down Reid asked if he wanted him to come home, he did not as his memory was improving and knew what was going on.

Nancy's notes:
I was fixing CP's breakfast and heard the garage doors open. I ran down to find the back door and both garage doors open and CP walking towards the street. I called to him. He was very confused. He said that Morrow Mountain had been hit by a tornado. He asked me where his wife and baby daughter were and if they were ok. I got him to calm down and I told him he lived with his son Reid. CP knew who I was but thought we all lived in NC. He said he wanted Reid becuase he thinks he has had a stroke. I ask why do you think you had a stroke. He says because his arm hurts and because he can't remember anything. I remind him about the fall on Monday and tell him that is why his arm hurts and then tell him that he has Alzheimer's and that it's okay.

I ask, do you want me to call Barbara? He says yes he wants to talk to Barbara. I called you and then Reid called. After he talks to Reid he is calmer and I paid extra attention to him today. I hope he does okay tonight.

Still sore

Nancy's notes:
He wanted to go for a short walk today. So we took it slow and he paid close attention to the sidewalk. We enjoyed looking at a book of NC that we got at the library. Seems more confused today playing checkers, cannot remember what color he is and like the other day gets angry if I win. Do you want me to always let him win?

Doing okay

CP is a little sore, which is to be expected.

Nancy's notes:
CP says he is going to buy a house and live alone. We talk about Alzheimer's and that he can't live alone. So, we change the subject! His memory is good today. We play checkers and read and sat outside for a while. Caught him trying to sneak the dog a banana!

ER visit

Well, it was an uneventful weekend but today made up for lost time!

At 11:15 CP and Nancy went for a walk. CP and his walker took a tumble. CP tells me, "If I'd been watching where I was going and not running my damn mouth I wouldn't have fallen!" He fell on his elbow and jammed his shoulder.

I came home from work and he is eating his lunch. He refuses to go to the ER until after he is finished eating. He stalls and KNOWS he is stalling by talking instead of eating. I tell him we have to go, he tells me not until he is done eating. I finally took his food away.

We get to the ER and start all of the x-rays etc. Whenever the nurse walks by he asks him for a beer. He tells him he can't have one. He says I want a Budweiser. We say you can't have one. He says, that is okay I really want a Schlitz! I say you are in the hospital and with your meds you can't drink. He starts singing LOUDLY...."Rye whiskey, rye whiskey, rye whiskey I cry, if a tree don't fall on me I'll live till I die!"

Later he tells the doctor he is "swimmy headed". Off for a CT scan. Everything comes out fine so they release him.

Friday

Went for a walk, sat outside and played checkers. He enjoys checkers and laughs a lot. He had a hard time concentrating today while playing checkers. Overall it was a pretty good day.

CP asked me to marry him. This isn't the first time. We've talked about the fact that I'm happily married and I show him my wedding ring. He asks me if I'm his wife. I tell him I'm his caregiver.

Thursday

Nancy's notes:
Went for a short walk today as his knee is a little swelled an bothering him. We sat outside for a while and he watched the neighbor kids play on the swingset. It was a good day today.

Nancy's notes:
Today he forgets where he lives. He thinks he is in Colorado for some reason and is surprised when I tell him he is in Missouri. He does remember that he is in Reid and Barbara's house.

He did fine walking today and we sat outside and visited for 25 minutes. Seems to be doing okay today.

Tuesday

Nancy's notes:
After breakfast CP laid on his bed for a while. He later wants to play checkers and then we go for a walk. After lunch he wants to take a 2nd walk, it is beautiful outside so I think it is a good idea. We sat outside on the patio this afternoon for a while too. Today he shared stories of his childhood he is a very interesting man.

Monday

Nancy's notes:
CP does not like using his walker, I told him that we can't take a walk unless he does. Today he is cranky. I tried to get him to play checkers or UNO or do a puzzle. He tells me that he just needs to watch TV and think of past memories. He is agitated after lunch. I went up and washed the lunch dishes and then he agrees to a walk after a nap. I read while he naps.

Turns out he doesn't want to walk after lunch and he refused to play a game and decides he doesn't want to do anything. He sayd that he is retired and if he doesn't want to do a damn thing he doesn't have to.

Doesn't want her to go home today and asks her to stay to dinner. She tells him she has to go home to her family. Told her he enjoys her company.

Jenni again

Well, it's Saturday and we need another "afternoon date". I still don't have a dress and the wedding is on May 23rd. I'd better get my rear in gear!

Jenni comes and spends a few hours with CP. They played checkers and had a good time. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Friday

Nancy's Notes:
I heard CP banging around while I'm fixing breakfast. I checked on him and he is fine. We was working on getting the sugar out of the sugar bowl. We played UNO tday and we played with less cards so that he doesn't get confused. We worked on a puzzle that I brought today. We went for an afternoon walk and he did some stretches as well.

Cameron's Concern

Been busy for the past 2 days so I didn't write anything. Nancy has started writing the days events for me. Cameron is concerned about CP because he is more confused today than normal. He and Nancy will write down examples tomorrow.

Reid and I are not surprised since it is a huge change to have Reid gone all day, Nancy and Cameron here all day.

Nancy writes:
CP is ready and anxious to take a walk today so we decided that we will after breakfast. Today we walked, played checkers and talked about doing a puzzle together.

A New Start

Reid started his new job today. Nancy stayed all day with CP and then Cameron spent 2 hours with him before we got home watching movies. All in all nothing out of the ordinary.

Easter!

I forgot to write that Cameron arrived on 4/10.

Today is Easter and we have a house full. We "put on the feed bag for " Reid, Barbara, CP, Cameron, Mom, Dad, Brenda, John, Justin, Bryon, Gerri, David, Sarah, Billy, Brent, Melinda, Austin, and Andrew. CP had great difficulty navigating the stairs, he cannot chew his meat even though we put it in the food processor. He chews it and spits it out and hides it under a napkin on his plate.

More Confusion

Tonight at dinner CP is very confused. He thinks it's lunch time and won't take his dinner meds. He keeps saying that he only takes pills 2 times a day. We show him the digital clock which has the day, month, year and time and he finally agrees to take his pills. After dinner we tell him that I am going to cut his hair before he showers. He gets mad that he has to take a shower and says he showered and shaved this morning. Reid shows him that his facial hair is rather long and then I cut his hair and go back upstairs while they tend to personal hygiene.

Nancy J.

Today our "Visiting Angel" Nancy came to spend some time with CP. Reid starts his new job on Monday and so they are going to spend four hours together today and get to know each other a little better.

It went very well and they seem to get along fine.

Sleeping woes

After dinner CP fell asleep in his recliner. Reid went down at :00 and told him it was time to go to bed. At 10:30 I go into the kitchen and hear the TV and the radio on the baby monitor. Reid goes down and helped him get into bed.

Days and Nights Confused

Well, CP got his days and nights confused. He stayed up all night thinking it was daytime.

Reid went to help him get showered and ready for church. CP thinks it is 7:00 pm instead of 7:00 am. He is confused and dizzy. Reid gets him in bed and stays home with him. We let him sleep until 12:00 and then took him out so that he will be tired tonight and will sleep.

Welcome Jenni

My niece, Jenni, is 19 years old and going to school to be an RN. So, we asked her to CP sit this afternoon while we have a "date afternoon".

CP is angry when we tell him that Jenni is staying with him while we are gone. Says he hasn't been confused in over a year. We talk about what happened on Sunday evening and then he is okay with Jenni staying.

It was nice to get out for the afternoon! We went shopping as I have to get a dress for Ryan's wedding. Who in the world is designing "Mother of the Groom" dresses. Hello....I don't need somthing slinky, I need something that says I'm the Mother of the Groom! Poor Reid was patient as we went from store to store and mall to mall. The dress eludes me this time!

Dressed all wrong

Today CP's bedroom temp is 73 and he is wearing a hat and a heavy leather coat. We ask him if he is cold. "No, but I don't want to be either!"

Confusion in the night.

Sunday was normal.

At 1:45 am the phone rings. I answer it. "This is Kendallwood Hills Estates I was taking the garbage out and when I came back in we had a message on our phone that it was urgent to call. That call came from this number." Reid jumps up to go check on CP, I explain to the poor confused young woman that CP has Alzheimer's and that we can take care of it from here.

Reid goes running through the living room (right past his dad) into CP's basement apartment only to find he isn't there. Coming back upstairs yelling "Dad" and finds him laying on the sofa wearing my coat. CP gets up and is very excited and is almost yelling. I woke up and I didn't know where I was. I went out into the garage - but that belongs to someone else. I came up here and didn't know where I was, went down and called KHE and then came back up here to figure it all out. (I'm wondering why he didn't come down the hall to our bedroom at this point) Reid get's him calmed down and takes him back down and tucks him in bed after showing him all of his belongings. They look at photos of Reid and Susannah as children and now. CP settles down and goes to bed.

Today at work I made several signs and had them laminated. On the phone we have "You live with Reid and Barbara and they are upstairs"

Preoccupied again

Today CP spent several hours playing with a box of cheerios. He tooke them out of a box and placed them on a paper plate and had them in neat precise rows. He didn't do much of anything else today.

Reid accepted a position with Stuppy Greenhouses and we tell CP that on April 13 Reid is going back to work and that a "Visiting Angel" will be staying with him. He tells us that he is capable of staying alone. We have a long discussion about his Alzheimer's as a result. He acknowledges his memory loss and says that if we think it is necessary he will do whatever we think is right.

Visit to the VA

Reid and CP went to the VA today to let him see it and put him on the waiting list at our elder law attorney's advice. It takes about 6 months to get the first call, and we can always say we aren't ready for them and to go to the next person on the list.

CP likes the VA and enjoyed talking to a few of the other men. He was surprised when Reid tells one that CP served in the pacific in WW2.

Dinner at church

Every Wednesday our church cooks dinner and feeds whoever comes. Tonight Reid and CP join me at the meal so that Reid can teach a class at 6:00. While Reid is in class CP meets a few of my co-workers and friends. He tells one friend that Emily was a jeweler and makes some of the best jewelry in NC. (He is talking about Susannah) He says he never knew his brother and sisters.

I want a Coke!

This morning before church CP is still busy drawing pictures. He never did eat. Then once we get to church we get settled in the pew. My mom and dad sit in the pew in front of us each week so I am standing in the aisle talking to them when Pastor (also my boss) asks me to find something for him. I go in search of what he needs. While I am gone Reid and my dad start talking and all of a sudden CP gets up and starts leaving. Reid asks where he is going and he has a dollar in his head. He says that his is going to buy a coke. Reid gets him settled and then he goes and gets him a coke!

Can't focus

Well I haven't written for a couple of days. Since that time he has lost track of days, thinks he left NC 8 years ago and at breakfast is preoccupied with drawing instead of eating. Reid keeps reminding him to eat and after 3 times he finally eats. At lunch he didn't really know what to do even though his food was on the table.

It's back...

The pocket knife returns from wherever it was hiding. Now...CP says he can't find his teeth. We hunt and find that he has hidden them in a hand towel on his desk.

Okay....

Today CP was using his pocket knife to cut up an apple at his little kitchen table in his room. Reid went down to see how he is doing and he tells Reid that he has some bad news for him. He said, "I was cutting up my apple and had to take a leak, so I carefully laid my knife on the table and when I came back it was gone. I'm sorry Lacey (our dog) ate it." We explain that she couldn't eat an open knife. Well, we hunt all over and can't find it. Hmmmm

Yikes!

Tonight after I got home from work Reid was feeling closed in. So, we hopped in the car drove 2 miles to the mini market for a package of hamburger buns and headed home. We were gone all of 15 minutes. When we get home CP has taken a coat hanger and fashioned a dog leash out of it and is getting ready to take the dog for a walk. We explain this is WHY he can't be alone and that it will never happen again. He states that he is strong and is capable of walking the dog. He doesn't understand that he will get lost. SCARY!

Oops

Well, I haven't really written any notes for the past few days. CP has had some compulsive behaviors. Rearranging things over and over for hours. The usual complaints about not wanting to walk 1/2 block and that it isn't necessary.

We discuss the fact that Reid is hoping to get a job soon and that the doctor says he can't stay alone any more. He argues that he is fine and eventually he says that we know more than he does and he will do whatever we think is best.

Dr. Appointment

Well, we had a doctor appointment today. Doctor does his usual questions to see how his memory is. Today he thinks it is April 9, 1984 or 1985. He tells the doctor that he is glad to get a check-up because he hasn't been to the doctor in 7 years. The doctor tells him he saw him a month ago before he moved in with us. CP tells the doctor it has to be longer because he has lived with us for 2 years. We discuss the fact that CP is having difficulty with meat. We agree to have the dentist check out his dentures to see if they are the problem. He will go back for a check in a month.

Home?

Today CP didn't argue after breakfast about getting a shower. He did fold his dirty clothes and start to put them in his drawer until Reid showed him that he needed to put them in the laundry basket. After church we went to Applebees for lunch and when we got home he asked when we were going to take him "home". We remind him that he lives with us now and he says that is find.

Controls

Well, CP is forgetting he has eaten and snacks all day long. At meal time he is not hungry. So, we are going to have to take the snacks out of his little kitchen area and each morning take him what is sufficient for that day.

Time to Exercise

Well, the weather is finally warm enough that Reid decides to take his Dad for a short walk. It's rather flat in our neighborhood so they walk about 1/2 a block. CP tells Reid that he is tired and wants to know "Why do I have to walk a damn mile?" He shows him where the house is and laughs and says I guess it isn't that far. He tells Reid that he works out everyday with his dumb bells, but they haven't been moved since he came to live with us.

Confusion again

Today Reid and CP weent to the drug store and just for a drive to get out of the house. When they got back CP stood in the driveway and told Reid "I thought you were taking me home." Reid explains to CP that he lives with us now. He thinks about it for a few minutes and then remembers. Says he is happy to be living with us.

Shopping with CP

Reid is still unemployed, they went to Wal-Mart today to go grocery shopping. CP is like a kid in a candy shop. He is filling the grocery cart and having a ball helping Reid doing the grocery shopping. Reid has to restrain him from some purchases, snacks he isn't supposed to have due to his edema. They spend the afternoon together and enjoy each other's company.

Settling In

Yesterday went rather smooth. It snowed most of the day and so we all just relaxed and enjoyed being inside.

This morning was another story. CP is very confused. As we expected, he didn't recognize where he is at and so we showed him his personal belongings. After breakfast Reid went down to assist him with his shower and I could hear him arguing with Reid. He says he had a shower this morning. Reid shows him the empty laundry basket, he says he showered and put his dirty clothes on. Reid explains that it doesn't do any good to shower and put on dirty clothing. He finally agrees to shower, change his clothes and shave before church. The rest of the day is normal.

Moving Day

8:00 am

Well, today is February 27 and CP is supposed to move in tomorrow. Unfortunately they are calling for 8 inches of snow and ice. So, moving day has been bumped and we are moving at 4:00 this afternoon. After we get CP moved in, my sister Brenda and I will get everything all put away while Reid, my brother Bryon, and brother-in-law John all move my brother Billy tonight too!

7:00 pm

Move is done, it went rather smooth. Everything is moved in and put away. It helps that we moved all the little stuff earlier in the week.