Thankful for Technology

[bazooka111]

I thought I would share this image of my Mom, just a few days ago, laughing as she listens to her sisters share childhood memories

I had asked them to schedule a time with me, so we could do a video call; knowing that mom could not contribute verbally, it would still be a wonderful time for them to take the lead and share . . . They did a great job! I wish I could share this in video with you all - I will never forget her laughter that filled this room!

Thankful for technology —- finding the JOY!

[Dadshelper]

Looks like she was having a wonderful time!

Ron

[bazooka111 in reply to Dadshelper]

Ron, it was so timely -- she needed this time with her sisters; they live 4 hours away. Mom can verbalize, but it takes time for her to express her thoughts, and most people (including family) that don't spend time with her... just don't get it. So, I called her sisters, and explained the struggle, but yet Mom misses them, and conversation -- I asked them to make it easy -- just talk and ask her yes and no questions for the short visit ... and OH it worked so nicely, and Mom wasn't put in a stressful situation to have to answer a full sentence question. Although I will say, Mom wanted to share a couple of her memories, and I was able to help her along, and it was just beautiful ---- she is sharp as a tack, without any memory loss. Not to say it isn't bitter sweet, because it is --- she is fully aware of what is going on, and I just know it is incredibly frustrating.

On another note (because I have had two cups of strong coffee) ... I find it amazing how people automatically think she is deaf, and start talking really loud??? Blows my mind. Not only that, without asking, there is some sort of automatic decision that she doesn't remember stuff, and that she has dementia. Now, I get it, and I understand that these are symptoms for so many people --- anyway, Im getting off my soapbox

[Dickwin in reply to bazooka111]

My Grandfather did NOT have a neuro-degenerative disease, had perfect hearing and close to 20/20 vision. But he always looked a little unhealthy and frail due to having polio as a child. He lived to be 90 years old and had no dementia, but people always spoke very loudly to him. He had fun with them: He used to pretend he didn't understand them until they were shouting at him and would then ask them to please stop shouting, as he had perfect hearing. He had fun.

Your Mom looks like she is having fun too. That was a great idea.

Warm Regards,

Dick

[Tippyleaf]

What a great idea. Thank you for sharing

Love to you and your Mom

Tippy xxx

[raincitygirl]

What a great character she must have, that she can be joyous in the midst of CBD 😊❤️

Anne G.

[Sunsetboulevard]

That’s lovely

[Doublereeder]

Fabulous!

I'm with you on the soapbox! Not that I've noticed people speaking loudly just the almost patronising sentances and assumption that Mum has dementia and not giving her time to reply.

[georgeg25]

What a fabulous idea. Allows your Mum to interact with others. Visual stimulation could be very beneficial. And I still love her smile. God Bless you all. ❤️❤️