posted on Nov, 26 2015 @ 08:47 AM
I'm a live in caregiver for this awesome lady with dementia. There's not many recreational activities that are practical for her to do. Even less that
keep her attention. This past Easter I had a bag from Target filled with Easter basket stuff for my goddaughter. In just the amount of time it took to
check on dinner in the oven, my 82-year-old friend had helped herself to these gifts. She was wearing a child tiara. had her arms filled with bangle
brackets. The dog was covered in hello kitty stickers (a nice change from the makeup she usually puts on him). When I initially noticed the empty bag,
I was a tiny bit annoyed. I would have to make another trip to Target but watching her color in her new coloring book, using her new crayons, I
didn't have the heart to interrupt her. I also realized it was the first time she wasn't following me like a shadow or doing something like giving our
desert tortoise coffee. Caring for someone with dementia is very mentally exhausting because you always have to be vigilant. Even when I sleep, one
eye has to be open, since the wee hours of the morning is when she likes to party the most. Lol.
Getting way off topic, but I just wanted to express what little privacy or relaxation I had. (btw- I absolutely adore this lady and wouldn't change
anything about her. She's my BFF and everything in this comment is said with love). After noticing how much she enjoyed coloring, i went online to
order some more books. I ordered a couple adult themed books. I also ordered some from a company that makes them specifically for those diagnosed with
dementia and are claimed to be designed in a way that, when used regularly, is beneficial for their memory. The way she colors is very unorthodox
(dementia related?) but really creative. These books occupy her enough so I can accually accomplish things around the house and boost her self esteem.
She'll color a picture with someone, usually a relative, in mind and I'll mail it to them for her. I am very greatful that we have found a hoppy she
loves. I could totally see where its benefits are comparable to meditation.