My Transformation as a Caregiver

I realized that little by little and without noticing, I had accepted his illness and I had found new ways to relate to him, ways that were genuinely satisfying for both of us. By Marie Marley +Alzheimer's Reading Room  I went to the Alois Alzheimer Center one day to visit Ed, my Romanian soul mate of 30 years. I didn't really want to visit because my visits were boring. And I was angry about Ed's condition. I wanted my old Ed back, but I knew that was impossible. So I just forced myself to visit that day. Once I was there I spontaneously got an idea for a little game to play with Ed. I started the visit by handing him one of his many stuffed animals, an act that always made him smile. I reviewed his growing collection and selected “Adorable,” the newest stuffed animal – a large bunny - I had given him, for the purpose. Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading Room Email: "Oh!" he said, his face shining as he stretched out his arms to take Adorable. "Oh! The lee-tle one! I love him so much." He put Adorable to his face and kissed him. And, as always, it was as though it were the first time he'd ever seen Adorable. Suddenly I turned my head away from Ed and pressed Adorable's nose. I said "beep" at the same instant. Just as I'd hoped, Ed thought Adorable said "beep." He looked at me and his eyes widened as he marveled at the bunny's new ability. Then he pressed on the bunny's nose and I went "beep" again. He laughed, pressed the button...
Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The - Category: Dementia Authors: Source Type: blogs