Dad and I went everywhere together. Whenever I suggested, "let's go for a ride", "let's go get something to eat", or "let's go to the store", he was always ready to go. He liked getting out, and I wanted him up and about and in public as much as possible. Isolation is an inevitable struggle for a dementia patient and the caregiver, but social activity and co-mingling with others is a balm for both people too. Unlike the Alzheimer's medications Dad was prescribed, numerous things we did likely slowed the progression and effects of the dementia. Interacting with other people and maintaining a public presence was one of them.
I enjoyed being with him in all of these settings. It was fun to sit next to him in Chapel for Sunday services, and occasionally catch him mouthing a few words of a familiar hymn. What a blessing! It was fun to watch him eat at home or in a restaurant. He took his time, alot of it, no matter where we ate. He savored every mouthful, and eventually taught me to take my time too. And I enjoyed going shopping with him. We didn't buy too much on any one trip. We would buy a few items, because it gave me an excuse to go again in 2 or 3 days. We walked all over the stores together, inspecting items, occasionally buying something new to try out, but usually looking at them and giving them the thumbs down. Store managers had no idea how much Dad helped tidy up their shelves. Dad had a keen eye for keeping things in-line. As we walked down the aisles, Dad would straighten up every thing, especially if something was out of alignment. They don't know the identity of their volunteer helper, but they definitely have more work without him.
I miss him in so many ways, and especially when I go shopping. It's strange to walk the aisles without him. I reach for his favorite items, and have to consciously remind myself, "no Greg, Dad doesn't need or want that now."
No comments:
Post a Comment