Leticia and I went to the nursing home to visit Mom last night. The nurse told us she went to look at the Christmas lights with some of the other residents. This was exciting news! The past few years we have had a difficult time getting Mom to leave the house and doing something fun with us. She was always worried about leaving Dad home alone. We waited about fifteen minutes in the Activity Room before I saw her walking back to her apartment with an aide. I jumped up and called out, Mom! She looked blankly at me. My heart sank, but I kept the smile on my face as I walked towards her. The aide told her that her daughter was here to visit her. Mom continued to just stare at me, but once I got close to her, she recognized me as family and gave me the biggest smile and warmest hug ever. I read recently where dementia and Alzheimers patients do better if they listen to their favorite songs. I took Mom into the Activity room so Leticia could play some of her favorite songs on the boom box. The first song played was Hello, Darlin by Conway Twitty. I carefully watched Moms face as she waited for the music to begin because I knew what to expect, and she didnt fail me. Her face broke out into a smile and she told me, I remember that song; it is one of my favorites. I thought to myself, Yes, Mom, I know, and I am so happy you remember. She and I sang the song. I cant carry a tune, neither can she, but I didnt care if anyone heard us. Leticia also played some of Elviss songs that she loves. The first one was In the Garden and the second one was How Great Thou Art. Mom stared intently at me as she concentrated on singing How Great Thou Art. She knew most, if not all, of the song. The last song Leticia played for her was I Cant Help Falling in Love With You. As Mom and I sang the song, I pointed my finger at her when I sang that particular line. Mom laughed. A little bit later, she stared intently at Leticia when that line began, nodded her head towards her, and sang that line to her. The three of us laughed. She and I continued singing the song, and when the line came again, she turned to me and sang it to me. Thats beauty. That is a gift. Mom told us she was tired so we went back to her apartment. We prayed with her before we left, but I didnt ask her if she wanted to pray for us. I had my head resting gently on her shoulder while I prayed. As I was pulling away, she said, I want you to know I really love you. As Leticia and I were leaving, I began to really view Moms dementia as a gift. Last night never would have happened if Moms brain wasnt sick because she would have been a grieving widow. I remember all too well how the life was sucked out of her after my sister Cheryl died. She never fully recovered from her death. In the midst of sadness, there was great joy. I consider our time together a gift from the Lord. I am not sure how much longer Mom will be here, but I am so thankful for the wonderful memories I have. Mom was always there for her children, and it is privilege to be there for her.
Posted on: Sat, 27 Dec 2014 20:24:15 +0000
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