April 21, 2012 - Oct. 14, 2012

July 3, 2012, Tues. I found missing pillowcase in dirty laundry. Foxy & I went to NH about 11:40 AM. I fed the birds. Mom was in her room with pureed Lunch and TV on. I turned off TV and got her spices from Nurses station (Elvita). I added about ½ teaspoon of curry to macaroni & cheese and ½ teaspoon Steak sauce to pork dish. Mom ate about ¾ of those two dishes. I left TV on DVD. We left about 1 PM. Charge Nurse Diane left message on my machine to call Lauren, speech Therapist. I called and talked to Speech Therapist, Lauren, about eating issues. Lauren says that she is new to this facility. I went to NH about 7:40 PM. I fed the birds. Riley has made some repair to feeder. Mom said she was thirsty so I put table with water near her, within reach. Mom and I put her clean clothes on hangers. I changed the DVD and opened the blinds. I left about 8:10 PM and set off alarm on the TV room door.

July 4, 2012, Wed. I arrived at NH about 10 AM and fed the birds. Mom was alone in her wheelchair in her room. We went to the activity in progress in Dining Room II. The band played and Mom had cocoa and pieces of a donut. It was great fun. I accompanied Mom back to her room and left her there watching TV about 11:40 AM. Foxy & I returned about 7:30 PM. Carl and Charlotte were there. Carl brought new flowers. We both fed the birds.  Mom was very tired, nodding out without her Oxygen. I put her O2 on and discovered it was unplugged so I checked with Nurse Steve. He said she is supposed to have her O2 on, that they usually put it on at 8PM. Carl & Char left. Tina reported that Mom did not eat her food well, that hot spice was put on her cereal (?) Tina also reported that Mom played horseshoes this afternoon and did well. As Foxy & I left about 8:10 PM I saw a parrot among the birds at the feeder.

July 5, 2012, Thursday. I arrived at NH about 11:40 AM. I fed the birds. Mom was in her room in her wheelchair with table with lunch pushed away. Brigadoon on TV. I think Brigadoon makes Mom want to “leave”. I changed to Fred Astaire and assisted Mom to eat some. She ate less than half, more than 1/3. I got her some coffee and gave her homemade fig bars after she finished ice cream. I got her walker and got her up to walk. She said she was having a BM. We walked to bathroom & I called for assistance.  At one point I stepped into hallway and called for help. (C.N.A. came at 12:50 PM.) I assisted Mom to toilet and to wash her hands. She walked with walker back to wheelchair. We played patty-cake. Tina returned about 12:40 PM and reported that Mom went to dance activity this AM. I assisted her to bed. I left at 1 PM.

July 6, 2012, Friday. I arrived at NH about 11AM and fed the birds. Mom was in her room, alone, in wheelchair watching TV, channel 2. We started her nails then food for lunch arrived. C.N.A. Maria also brought the spices. We added curry to potato mix and steak sauce to creamed meat stuff. Also curry to pureed cold slaw. Mom ate about ½ of potato and cold slaw and less than 1/3 of meat mix and chocolate pudding. I gave her homemade fig bars also after she refused to eat more. She ate a whole one. Then we finished her nails. She did some leg lifts then walked with walker to the hallway and back. C.N. A. came for her tray. I left about 1:30 PM. I left DVD of American in Paris playing. Tina had returned to room. Tina reported 3 parrots visited the feeder last night.

July 7, 2012, Sat. I arrived at the NH about 11:30 AM. I fed the birds noting the closed blinds. Mom was alone, reclining on her made-up bed, no TV, blinds drawn, side rail down and no pad underneath her. Tina’s bed was not made. I opened the blinds, put on a DVD (Top Hat) and got Mom up. When she stood, she leaked. I checked and she was sopping wet so we headed for bathroom, Mom in W/C. LaVita C.N.A. came in with Mom’s lunch tray (no salt, pepper, butter nor drink). LaVita assisted Mom to toilet and I assisted Lavita. We changed her dress. I asked for Mom’s spices and I got whipped fake butter from dining room for the mashed potatoes; Steak sauce on pureed black-eye peas and pureed beef.  Mom drank the red sauce supplied from kitchen, mistaking it for a drink. I got ice for Tina’s and Mom’s water jugs from dining room. Mom ate all potatoes, black-eyed peas and a little of the pureed beef. We added molasses and strawberry flavoring to rice pudding and she ate that. Maria came & made–up Tina’s bed. LaVita came for the tray. I got an underpad and put Mom on her bed with DVD playing. I put up side rails and covered her with nightgown. I left at 1:30 PM and added birdseed. Foxy & I went to NH about 7:30 PM. Mom was on her bed, still dressed watching DVD with sound down. I fed the birds. I brought two new looping DVDs, birds and lions. I put on Winged Migration and called for assistance putting Mom to bed. C.N.A. Yvonne came. She said she is not on this hall tonight but assisted Mom and changed her. DVD seemed to work. Foxy & I left about 8:20 PM. Yvonne reported that she had not seen Mom out of bed this afternoon. I saw a male C.N.A. appear to be wiping tears from his eyes in the hallway.

July 8, 2012, Sun. Foxy & I arrived about 11:30 AM. Mom was alone on the bed, dressed with O2 on watching channel 66. I fed the birds. I changed it back to bird DVD then changed the DVD to the lion DVD. Mom was out of sorts but I got her up and into her chair, brushed her hair and lunch tray came. I turned off TV and assisted Mom with lunch. Adding salt and curry to turkey purees. She ate well. We did a few exercises, checked her fingernails, put on face & handcream. Tina came and reported the death of a resident last night. I turned TV on and left it on DVD. Mom was in a better mood. We left about 1:30 PM.

July 9, 2012, Mon. I went to NH about 11:05 AM. Mom was on her bed, blinds closed, watching DVD, sound down. I got Mom up to her wheelchair and got her a cup of coffee.  I assisted Mom to get up and walk with her walker. She walked as far as the entrance to Dining room II and back to her room. Tina had returned to the room when we returned. I seated her in wheelchair. C.N.A. brought her tray and her spices. C.N.A. observed my use of spices on her food. I turned off TV and left about Noon.

July 10, 2012, Tues. I went to NH with Riley about 11:15 AM. We switched out TVs for a newer set with built in DVD player. Riley took Mom’s TV & player to my house. Riley fed the birds and put more glue on feeder. Mom was on the bed. CNA assisted getting Mom

up and changing her, standing up. Mom was very wet so we changed her dress also. Female Hispanic resident in wheelchair kicked the door to room open and attempted to go into the bathroom. Tina reported that this is the resident who has gone into drawers and been belligerent about entering their room before. I brought clothes home to wash. I stayed with Mom and assisted her eating lunch. She ate more than half her food. I put DVD of Birds on TV and left about 1:30 PM. DVD player was being persnickety.  I asked Nurse Diane about Mom’s sugar and salt levels. Nurse Diane said they are good.

July 11, 2012, Wed. I arrived at NH this morning about 10:55 AM. I fed the birds. Mom’s TV was NOT playing DVD. I sprayed with compressed air but it still would not play plus I could only get 3 channels??? Mom was on her bed dozing. I got her up. She was very wet. I called for help. I changed her standing up like the other C.N.A. had done the day before. C.N.A. arrived as we were finishing up. There was a small BM in diaper. I went to office to talk to administration about bill but Candy was busy and I needed to leave for work. I called Riley from lobby phone and asked him to bring DVD player from my house. I left about Noon. I returned to NH about 7PM with clean clothes. I fed the birds. Mom was in bed under the covers, fully clothed. DVD player was there but not playing. I changed DVD and it played. Tina reported that Riley had come and messed with it. I called for assistance in changing Mom. C.N.A. came and I assisted her in changing Mom’s clothes and diaper. C.N.A. reported that Mom had gotten into bed herself. Mom and I hung up clean clothes. I left about 8 PM. I left Fred Astaire on DVD.

July 12, 2012, Thursday. Foxy & I went to NH about 10:30. We went to Administration office and I talked to Candy Sandlin about paying off the balance. We agreed to deducting $30 per month from Mom’s personal care account.  We went to Mom’s room and C.N.A. Latina(?) was assisting Mom to get up. They went to bathroom. Mom had good BM. We helped her dress. Latina told me that her spices are now kept in bottom drawer in her room. I discovered that her new TV set will not scroll through channels but will change with remote control. I left TV on TVland.  Mom seated in her wheelchair. We left about 11:40. Her lunch had not come yet. I fed the birds.

July 13, 2012, Friday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:45 AM. We visited Administration first to show Candy Sandlin letter from HHSC re Medicare D. Ms Sandlin says it is likely a mistake.  Pointed to return address, Midland, TX, and said it an independent contract center whose staff knows nothing. It made no sense to me. Then Foxy & I went to see Mom. I fed the birds. Mom was resting on her bed watching TVLand without O2. I got her into her chair, brushed her hair. Foxy & I accompanied her to Nail Spa in Dining Room II. Donna said that they were going to have bell-ringers at 11 AM. I helped Mom do her nails then Foxy & I left about 11 AM.

July 14, 2012, Sat. I went to NH about 2:40 PM. Mom dozing on her bed watching TVland, blinds closed. I fed the birds, opened the blinds and got Mom up. We did some standing and balancing. I brushed her hair, washed her face & glasses and accompanied her to Dining Room II for entertainment, singing Oldies (romantic). I got Mom some coffee (and another lady) and we sang along, quietly, with some of the old songs. I accompanied Mom back to her room and put TV on DVD, Fred Astaire. C.N.A. Sheila brought Mom tray. Sheila is a minimum effort Assistant. Mom seemed hungry and enthusiastic about eating so I put spices away. I reported to Nurse (new Nurse) that I had left Mom in room with wheelchair locked and left about 5 PM.

July 15, 2012 Sun. I didn’t go to NH. Riley went at lunch time and also brought Mom a strawberry shake. Riley fed the birds.

July 16, 2012, Mon.  Foxy & I went to NH about 9:40 AM. Mom was reclining on her bed, dressed, watching Bird DVD, blinds open. I fed the birds. I got Mom up. She had a broken nail so we worked on nails, hand cream, face cream. I cleaned her glasses. I got her walker and we did 5 stands. Then Foxy & I accompanied Mom to exercise activity. Foxy & I left about 10:45 AM. Mom seemed in a good mood.

July 17, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 2:50 PM. I fed the birds. Riley visited Mom earlier about 10:40 AM. He also fed the birds. Mom expressed desire to go home. She did not go to activity this morning (bowling). She was reclining on her bed with O2 on. I turned off TV (DVD of singing in the Rain), turned off O2 and got Mom up. Mom wanted to go to the bathroom. I called for help and accompanied Mom to bathroom. Vanessa CNA came but did not assist. We saw two parrots at feeder.  I accompanied Mom to activity, decoupage small trays. Mom did two. We returned to her room about 4:30 and CNA Vanessa was putting Mom’s food on the table. Vanessa asked why Mom’s food was changed to puree. I told her because now Mom has no teeth. Vanessa told me that Mom does not like pureed food. I left about 4:45, TV off and Mom eating.

Geraldine Hickerson is self aware. She remains oriented x2 with short-term memory of about 15 minutes or less. She enjoys activities of all sorts. Participation in activities improves her appetite as well as her sense of well being. Long term memory is focused on her children, sisters, parents and immediate family.

July 18, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 9:20 AM. I fed the birds. Mom was reclining on her bed watching regular TV. Tina said that CNA put the TV on that channel. Tina also reported that Social Worker interviewed Mom yesterday. I took “Singing…” out of DVD and put on Birds DVD then turned TV off. I got Mom up. She did some leg kicks and some standing/balance. Tina reported that Carl came last night to visit Mom. I accompanied Mom to activity.  A Performance with cocoa and donut bit. I left about 10:05. I asked Nurse Elvita about Mom’s teeth. She said I needed to talk to Diane tomorrow.

July 19, 2012, Thursday. I went to the NH about 9:45 AM. I fed the birds. Mom was reclining on her bed, blinds open. I accompanied her to activity involving trivia questions. Nurse Diane telephoned dentist and we both spoke to the dental office, Lisa, about Mom getting new teeth. I stayed for the activity and joined in. Then I accompanied Geraldine back to her room and gave her crayons and a page to color and put on DVD. I left about 11:15 AM.

July 20, 2012, Friday. I arrived at NH about 9:40 AM and fed the birds. Mom was in bed under the covers watching DVD. Tina and CNA were watching news of the attack in Aurora, CO. I brought clean clothes. Mom and I hung them up. Tina reported that the Dentist and assistant came yesterday and took impressions of upper and lower jaw. I accompanied Mom to an exercise activity. Nurse Diane confirmed that dentist had seen Mom yesterday. I left about 10:30 AM.

July 21, 2012, Saturday. Foxy & I arrived at NH about 9:45 AM and I fed the birds. Mom was asleep with O2 on, under covers. I got her up and noted that she was very wet and specks of blood in a wet spot on bed pad. I checked her legs and found open wound, plastic bandage peeled back, on back of lower left leg. Tina reported that Mom had a restless night. C.N.A. Mary reported that Mom was not in her bed when she arrived this morning about 5 AM. I assisted Mary to toilet Mom. Mom had good BM and I got her a new dress and sweater as hem of her garment was wet. Mom gave Foxy a treat and I showed her the new DVDs. The Fred A. DVD skipped, I wiped and replaced in player. Foxy & I accompanied Mom to nurse’s station where Nurse Elvita inspected and bandaged Mom’s leg. We accompanied Mom to activity, games. I got colors for Mom and Jan gave Mom cocoa and cookies.  We returned to her room. I left Mom sitting in wheelchair (unlocked) coloring. I loaned Jan copy of ANNIE. Foxy & I left about 11 AM.

(Foxy had BM on departing which I cleaned up). I returned to NH about 8:10 PM with the Great Migrations disk. Blinds were open & I fed the birds. I set off alarm trying to enter through the TV room.  I went around to back door, apologized to Nurse. Mom was in bed and we put on the DVD but it skipped and wouldn’t play. I put on Fred A. DVD and left about 8:40 PM.

July 22, 2012, Sunday.  Foxy & I went to NH about 9:20 AM. I fed the birds, blinds were closed. Mom was asleep with O2, dressed on top of covers. I turned off O2, opened blinds and started getting Mom up. CNA Mary came in and took Mom’s vitals. Her O2  level was 90, temperature 96 and blood pressure good. I got Mom up but she smelled of urine. I called for assistance but none came. I toileted Mom and she had a small BM. I changed her dress and got her a sweater. We returned to room and tried the Great Migrations DVD. It still didn’t work. Tina went for Therapy. She said that she goes everyday. We watched TV and cracked pecans. Mom also colored and did some leg lifts. I noted wadded up bandage and exposed wound on Left leg. It looked dry and healing. I had not noticed this left leg wound yesterday. Nurse came and put new bandage on Left leg.  I assisted Mom back to rest on top of covers the bed. I put O2 back on. Foxy & I left about 10:45.

July 23, 2012, Monday. I arrived at NH about 10:20 and fed the birds. Blinds were open and Mom was resting on her bed O2 on. I put up her fish mobile. Nurse came and checked Mom’s leg wounds. She rebandaged the wound on Mom’s R calf. I got Mom up and we went for a walk and observed activity in Dining Room II. Then we returned to Mom’s room and I changed TV to DVD. I left Mom coloring sitting in wheelchair about 11:20 AM. We did some standing/sitting exercise. Tina reported Mom up and out of bed about 5 AM today.

July 24, 2012, Tuesday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:25 AM. We went to see Candy Sandlin in Administration first but she was in a meeting so we went to see Mom. She was in bed, dressed without O2 and no bed pad. I put her O2 on her then Foxy & I exited to feed the birds. We saw Candy about letter from Medicare. She told me that I would also receive a Part D card and I could bring it to them to keep on file. She also said that they often keep resident’s Medicaid cards on file.  Foxy & I got Mom out of bed and accompanied her to play ball with Activities. We filed her fingernails and she had a coffee before the games began. We left Mom in the game about 10:30 AM.

July 25, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 9:20 AM and fed the birds. Mom was in the TV room, with other residents watching the news, CNN. We went to her room and opened the blinds. I found doggy treat on the floor. I suspect she have tried to eat such. Tina reported that Mom was up early this morning. I wiped Mom’s face and gave her face cream. She put her legs up and I put handcream on her legs. We perfumed, put on rouge, cleaned her glasses, brushed her hair then went to activity for cocoa and donut piece. I gave a package of wooden clothespins to Annie in Rec. The entertainer was proselytizing heavily so we returned to Mom’s room. We visited with Nurse Diane a minute re: dentist. I put on DVD and left Mom at table with emery boards in room about 10:20 AM. I fed the birds again (with red pepper).

July 26, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 9 AM and fed the birds. The two parrots were sitting on telephone wire. Mom was sitting up watching TV with Tina in her room. Tina reported that Carl came to visit last night and stayed 20 or 30 minutes. I brought new looping DVDs from Brooks. I put foot cream on Mom’s legs and gave Mom face cream to rub around. We went for a walk and visited covered patio and played patty-cake. Then we went to large Dining room II and Mom had a coffee and we watched the birds. I accompanied Mom back to her room and put to resting on top of her covers with O2 on and bed rail up. I left about 10:10 AM. Foxy & I went to the NH about 7:15 PM. I fed the birds. Mom and Tina were in bed, blinds open so they saw us coming. Mom watching TV without glasses. I gave them to her and put Foxy on her bed who she petted joyously. I got her clothes to clean and freshened the flowers. I traded her the stuffed Fido for Foxy and we left after 8 PM. New DVD on TV.

July 27, 2012, Friday. I went to NH today about 2:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds were open. Mom was reclining on her bed, dozing and watching DVD, O2 on. CNA Ugonna took Tina for a bath. I got Mom into her wheelchair and did Mom’s nails. We put news on TV. Ugonna returned with Tina and asked if Mom wanted a bath. When Mom sat on the bathchair, she urinated and had a BM on the floor. Ugonna cleaned it up with paper and cloth towels then took Mom for a bath. When they returned, we assisted Mom get clean clothes, face cream, hand cream, conditioner, clean socks and shoes. Jan from Recreation invited Mom for an ice cream party and Olympics celebration (starts today). I accompanied Mom to Dining room II for the party. I left about 3:50 PM. I left new DVD of Great Migrations playing on the TV.

July 28, 2012, Saturday. I went to the NH about 2:15 PM. I fed the birds and brought Mom’s clean clothes. Also Tina Rolf’s outfit that had gotten mixed in Mom’s laundry.

Mom was sleeping on her bed, blinds open. Tina warned me of the pool of urine by Mom’s bed. I got a towel on it. CNA Yvonne assisted Mom to get in her chair and brushed her hair. Mom & I watched DVD of Great Migrations while we hung up and put away her clothes. I cleaned off her table and washed out the bag of her spices. Mom ate the pumpkin pie I brought for her. I changed the DVD to Fred A. then we went to the Dining room II for entertainment and a coffee. We returned to her room before program was finished and I left her coloring in her wheelchair. I reported to a nurse that she was alone in her room, wheelchair locked. I left about 4:10 PM.

July 29, 2012, Sunday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:20 this morning. I fed the birds. Mom was resting on her bed, no O2, and pink sweater over her knees under the sheet. I got her up. First we put hand cream, foot cream, face cream on. I got her some socks, brushed her hair. Her dress was on backwards. I just left it and put her sweater on her. I brought her a new coloring book. I changed the DVD. We went for a walk to Dining room II and I got her some coffee. We went back to her room. We left her coloring, wheelchair locked, about 11:20. I didn’t see any CNA. I returned to NH about 3:25 PM. Neither Mom nor Tina were in their room and there was a performance going on in dining room II. I left a bell to give Tina to ward off invaders in one of Mom’s drawers. I left at 3:35 PM. I fed the birds.

July 30, 2012, Monday. I went to NH at 10:50 AM. The blinds were closed, I fed the birds. New flowers from Carl, 2 vases. Mom was resting on her bed, TVland on. I started to get her up but she was sopping wet so we went to bathroom. I called for assistance. CNA came and got her a new dress, then left. We returned to bedroom then Kelly, from Therapy came to get Mom. Mom put on her socks & shoes. I brushed her hair. Then Mom went to therapy. I gave Tina the bell to repel intruders. I left about 11:15 AM.

July 31, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 9:10 AM. Blinds were closed. I fed the birds. Remnants of different feed with cracked corn were in feeders. Mom was resting on her bed watching TVland. Oxygen was in her nostrils but compressor was off. I turned it on. I couldn’t find the remote control and I reported it missing then I found it and reported that, too. Got Mom up, cleaned her glasses, got some ice for her water. I accompanied her, as she wheeled herself, to dining room II for games. I got her some coffee then left about 10:10 AM. Tina reported that Mom gets up and gets on the bed herself. Foxy & I went to the NH at 3 PM. Mom was resting on her bed, O2 on. I fed the birds.  I brought Utrecht acrylic paint for arts & crafts today. Yvonne the CNA came and assisted getting Mom up. We accompanied Mom to arts & crafts, painting clothespins. We returned to Mom’s room about 4:20 and Yvonne brought her supper. We left about 4:30 PM.

I spoke with Dr. Fran. She wants Mom to eat at the feeding table in the dining room so they are going to try that. She thinks that Mom’s weight loss is due to loss of fluid. Dr. Fran’s theory doesn’t correspond with Mom’s weight before she became ill. Tina said the bell did not discourage the intruder into their room so I brought the bell home. I left the DVD playing.

August 1, 2012, Wednesday. Foxy & I arrived at the NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds were closed. Mom was resting on her bed with O2 on, TV on TVland. I got her up and we accompanied her to entertainment in progress, Tejano music, cocoa and donut pieces. Gus Garcia’s accordion band was great fun. Kelly, from Therapy came and got Mom for a session about 10:25. Foxy & I accompanied Mom to therapy room then we left about 10:30.

August 2, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 9:00 AM. I fed the birds. The blinds were closed. I locked my keys in the car and called Riley. Mom was in her wheelchair in sleeveless dress. TV was on TVland.  I got her a shirt from closet, brushed her hair and cleaned her glasses. I opened the blinds and we saw 5 parrots. Tina reported seeing 12 parrots the night before. Riley brought my keys to me and visited for a bit. I escorted Mom to dining room II for the good-bye coffee for the Pastor. I left Mom in the dining room about 10 AM. I left her TV off.

August 3, 2012, Friday. Foxy & I arrived at NH about 11 AM. I fed the birds, blinds were open. We saw two parrots. Mom was resting on her bed, O2 was on but the nostrils were on the floor. Nurse Diana told me that Mom got into snack drawer and ate some dog treats. I moved treats to top drawer under the TV. I assisted Mom to the wheelchair, hand cream & face cream. I accompanied Mom to the bathroom. She had a small BM. Mom was very alert and recounting “false memories” to me. We went to the big dining room for coffee. Then we returned to her room. We left Mom in her room with her coffee, watching Fred A. DVD and coloring, about 11:30 AM. I brought home her clothes to wash.

August 4, 2012, Saturday. Foxy & I went to the NH about 9:10 AM. I fed the birds. The blinds were closed. Mom was asleep on her bed with O2 on and the TV off. I brought Mom’s clean clothes. We hung them up.  I got Mom into her wheelchair and we worked on her fingernails. Mom & I played pattycake and practiced standing up. I put the Great Migrations DVD on. Mom wanted to go back to bed so I put her back in bed with the O2 on. We left about 10:30 AM. This afternoon I got a call from David Lehman saying that he was at NH with Mom and they were enjoying the live music performance in Dining room II.

August 5, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH about 9:40 AM. I fed the birds. The blinds were open and Mom was resting on her bed with O2 on. I did not get her up but gave her a small container of potato chips which she ate. I brushed her hair, cleaned her glasses, played patty cake. TV was on TVland. I put Singing in the Rain DVD on. Tina reported that Carl visited yesterday and Carl also sent me an email about the visit. We did hand cream and nails. I left about 10:30 AM.

August 6, 2012, Monday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:20 AM. The blinds were closed. Mom was resting on her bed with the O2 tubing on her but the compressor was turned off. I turned it on so she could have a few minutes of O2 before I got her up. I opened the blinds and the birds came. I changed the TV to DVD. Tina was not in the room. Mom did some leg lifts. I got her into her wheelchair, brushed her hair, cleaned her glasses and we watched the birds for a few minutes. Then Foxy & I accompanied her to the exercise/trivia program in Dining room II. I got Mom a coffee. We left Mom about 10:20. I saw Nurse Diane and we visited a few minutes about Mom’s art history. I showed her some photographs.

August 7, 2012, Tuesday. Foxy & I went to visit Mom at NH about 9:40. I fed the birds, blinds were open. Mom wasn’t in her room. She was in line at the beauty shop. CNA Roseanne (?) said that Mom propelled herself to the line. This is uncharacteristic of Mom. I asked her if she wanted to go back to her room to visit. She said yes and we returned to her room. TV was on DVD and bed was nicely made. I offered her mashed up peaches (about 2 TBlspns.). She didn’t want them. We watched the birds and the movie. I invited her to go to the activity and she agreed after I turned off the TV. Foxy & I accompanied her to Dining Room II. I got her a coffee. We left her about 10:20 and went to the office to make a payment. Foxy & I left about 10:45.  Nurse Diana telephoned me at home about 11:30 and reported that Mom had tried to descend the slope from dining room II and run into the desk at Nurses station II. There are some indentions on her left knee. They might have it x-rayed. I returned to the NH about 3:20 PM. Nurse Diana reported that Mom had not eaten her lunch and consumed only about ¼ cup of Boost under her supervision. Mom was reclining on her bed, under the covers, TV off, O2 on. I changed the DVD to TOP HAT and turned it on. There were fresh flowers so I telephoned Carl. Carl said he had come by and offered Mom a banana which she refused so he ate it. I put cream on her feet and got her up. I got another Boost from Nurse Diana. We went to the crafts activity and made leis for celebration two weeks from now.  I noted that Mom’s capacity seemed reduced. She consumed the Boost during the activity. We returned to her room. Mom was sopping wet so I toileted her. I noted discolored urine and also discoloration in her diaper. We played pattycake. Mom had difficulty with this activity. I changed her clothes put her to bed with O2 and turned on DVD. I alerted Nurse Diana and Nurse Steve.  They came immediately and checked vital signs and noted the discolored urine. Nurse Diana reported that she was writing orders for an antibiotic. I left about 5:20 PM.

August 8, 2012, Wed. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds were closed. Mom was sitting in wheelchair, DVD on with sound down. I opened the blinds. Mom was dressed with socks on. I brushed her hair, put conditioner on hair and rubbed her shoulders. Mom put her feet up on the bed and I asked her to wiggle her toes then rubbed her feet. She said “that hurts.” I pulled one sock off and her feet felt warm to touch. I put socks back on and assisted her to get in bed on top of covers with bed pad and sheet over her. I noticed that her belly seems swollen. I offered her water from pitcher. She took a big drink although water was warm. I got ice for her water. I reported to Nurse Diana that Mom’s feet were warm and belly seems swollen. Mom drank deep draught again of the cold water and again. I gave her a gum drop and turned up sound on TV. Mom’s increased confusion continues. We left about 10:10 AM. Nurse Diana called me at home about 11:00 AM saying that Mom had a temperature of 100.4. I telephoned Nurse Diana about 4:30 to say that my car broke down and I would not be back to see Mom today. She reported that they had given Mom Tylenol and that Mom’s temperature was down to 97.3. Nurse Diana also said that Mom had participated in activities that afternoon and was more alert in her behavior.

August 9, 2012, Thursday. Foxy & I went to NH this morning about 10:25 AM. I fed the birds, blinds were closed. Mom was reclining on her bed, with bed rail up and no O2. I put O2 on Mom then I asked Nurse Diana and she reported that Mom’s O2 reading this morning was 93 on room air. The TV was on DVD with sound down. I opened the blinds, put Foxy on the bed with her, wiped her face, rubbed her feet. Speech Therapist came in to give Mom a session and evaluation. I went to get ice for the session but the ice machine was out of order. Therapist explained about thickening agent for water, thin liquids, to guard against aspiration. Mom’s swallowing has diminished, at least in part due to aging of musculature but also dementia prevents her from thinking through the swallowing process. Mom needs to practice the steps to swallow properly; Coughing on cue sometimes to clear passageway; Double swallow to get soft food down; instructed to swallow with head down (not up); cues to swallow. Therapist left after about 20 minutes. I put cream on her feet and turned up sound on TV. Foxy & I left about 11:10 AM.

August 10, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 9:20 AM. I fed the birds, the blinds were closed. Mom was dozing on her bed, guard rails up, TV on, sound off, O2 on. I tried to arouse Mom but she remained recalcitrant and wanted to stay in bed. We did some hand exercises. I brushed her hair, wiped her face. We put on hand cream, face cream and I brought some clean clothes which we hung up, put away. Mom had on someone else’s white sweater (well marked for room 206). I took that off of her and delivered to nursing station. I put her blue sweater on her. I tried to get her to eat some applesauce that I brought from home but she refused. I noticed partially eaten banana at her bedside. I took that home with me. I left about 10:30 with the dirty laundry. In the laundry, at home, I noticed that a bed sheet was also in her laundry.

August 11, 2012, Saturday. Foxy & I arrived at NH about 10:20 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open and old feeder still in place. Riley said that he would place new feeder today. Mom was on her bed asleep, bed rails up, O2 on, TV on DVD. I brought clean clothes and fig jelly applesauce. Tina reported that Mary had just put Mom to lie down. Mom’s walker was out and Tina reported that Mary had assisted Mom to walk to the bathroom.  I let her sleep a bit while I got clothes and hangers out. I got Mom out of bed and fed her the applesauce. Mom liked it and ate it all (@ 4 oz.). Then we accompanied her to Zumba activity in dining room II. Mom said that she did not want coffee. We participated in Zumba dance exercises then returned to her room.  We hung up her clothes. Mom had a lot of difficulty with this task. Her coordination and problem solving was low. I got out the colors and noted that Mom has no rolling table in her area now. I braced the coloring book on her walker. We left Mom coloring about 11:30 AM. I left Fred Astaire DVD on. We tried the Winged Migration DVD while hanging clothes but it did not play all the way through.

August 12, 2012, Sunday. Foxy & I went to NH about 10 AM. The old feeder is still in place. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was asleep in her wheelchair, slumped to the side with significant drooping on L side of her face. TV and DVD player was off. When I awoke her, her face straightened up mostly, especially when she smiled. I put the TV on TCM. Mom complained of tiredness and was argumentative. I got a cloth and wiped her face, brushed her hair and assisted her to sit up straighter in her chair. I gave her some fig preserves flavored applesauce. She ate about 2 oz. I cleaned her nails and touched them up with polish. We did some hand cream. We played some hand games. We watched the birds. I changed the water on the flowers and washed the vase. She refused invitation to walk or visit the patio. I assisted her to bed, put the bed rail up and put the O2 on. Foxy & I left about 11:20 AM.

I returned to NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was resting on her bed with O2 on, TV on TCM. CNA LaShonda came and changed Mom standing up. Mom had a lot of difficulty standing for the duration. Mom was in a contrary mood. I cleaned her glasses, brushed her hair and put labels (post-its) on the drawers. We went to the dining room II for the music program by members of the Austin Symphony Orchestra, flute, clarinet and piano. Music by Debussy, Bernhard Crusell, Ralph Vaughn-Williams, Arthur Honegger, and Johannes Donjon. Mom was riveted! The music was marvelous! I sketched the trio and gave it to them. Mom and I returned to her room. Mom immediately wanted to lie down so I assisted her to her bed, bed rail up, O2 on and TV on TCM. I left about 4:45 PM.

August 13, 2012, Monday. I arrived at NH about 11:10 AM. New birdfeeder was in place with seed, blinds closed. Mom was not in her room. TV was on TCM. I opened the blinds and put TV on DVD. I went to see Mom in the dining room I. She was drinking some juice. There was one other resident in the dining room. Mom said that she was cold. I went to her closet and got her a shirt to put over her dress.  Other residents were being brought in. We played pattycake, looked at the fresh flowers (roses, lilies, baby’s breath Eucalyptus) and rubbed each others shoulders. Mom is very sensitive to firm touch and demonstrates little strength in her hands. Mom was able to play patty cake with cues but could not accelerate play. Counting to six for the Tai Chi exercises were beyond her grasp today. She was being distracted as people came and went. I left about 11:40 AM.

August 14, 2012, Tuesday. Foxy & I went to NH about 8:55 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. The CNA was just finishing putting Mom on her bed when I came in. TV was off. I changed her shirt from a pull over that didn’t match to one more suitable in color and button in front like a sweater. I found no sweaters in her closet. Mom said she was thirsty. I went to Nurse station and asked for water for Mom. Nurse Steve brought her some thickened, cold water. I gave her a straw and she drank about ¼ of the cup. I put Foxy on bed with her, opened the blinds, turned on TV to DVD. I cleaned her glasses and showed her a photo that I found of her in front of High School in Weatherford. I got a warm cloth for her face and cleaned her glasses. Her cotton ball container was broken with Q-tips all gone so I brought it home. We stretched and I gave her weight to lift. She did over 10 with each arm and counted to 19 easily. I gave Tina a National Geographic. Foxy & I left about 9:35 AM.

I returned to NH about 3:10 PM. I fed the birds. Sheila was getting  Mom up when I came. Mom was wet plus evidence of diarrhea. Sheila had an assistant, new CNA, no name badge, come to assist with changing Mom in her bed. I also assisted. I noted rash and asked for A&D lotion. Sheila went into the top drawer to get the A&D packet with her gloves still on, handling objects in the drawer. I noted feces on bed sheet and Sheila commented on it, also, the need for a change.  I brought Mom’s gold lame’ cape for the birthday party for August birthdays. Mom appeared especially unresponsive to cues, and timid in Sheila’s presence.  I brushed her hair, wiped her face with a warm cloth, wiped her hands with antiseptic lotion, assisted her to Dining room II for the birthday celebration. Carl and Charlotte arrived also. The entertainer played old favorites like she’ll be coming around the mountain. Mom started to perk up in the celebration and music. We were served chocolate cake and green fruit punch. I mashed her cake up with the frosting and Mom ate about ¾ of that plus drank all her punch and half of mine. It was fun. We accompanied Mom back to her room and I got her colors out. Mom was more alert. The table in her room won’t hold a down position for coloring. The bed sheet had not been changed so I pulled it off. I found three socks stuck in the covers at the foot of the bed. There were also stains on the upper sheet and the bedspread. The new CNA & I changed the sheets and she went to find a bedspread. I left about 4:55 PM. Carl called me at home at 5:40 PM to say he had left his Ipad there. I returned to NH about 5:50PM. Mom was in the dining room starting her meal. Tina reported that Carl had taken a lap blanket to Mom in the dining room because she said she was cold. Recreation Director, Donna, assisted me to look for the Ipad. I did not find his Ipad. I returned home to a message from Carl saying that he had found it.

August 15, 2012, Wednesday. About 10:30 Nurse Sylvia telephoned me at home to say that Mom was pulling out her hair. I told her to give her a hairbrush. She also asked if I had asked for hospice. I said yes. I arrived at the NH about 10:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was asleep on her bed, completely flat (not raised head nor feet as has been medically recommended), O2 on, bed rail up. TV on DVD, sound down.  I gave Mom some lipstick, opened the blinds and started getting Mom up. She seemed wet to me but insisted she did not want to go to the bathroom. I got her into her chair, put conditioner on her hair, cream on her legs, and brushed her hair. She asked for water and I offered the thickened water but it was too thick for her to get down so I gave her some water with a teaspoon. Mom was less responsive than yesterday to cues and had difficulty understanding me. She did not smile at me as easily as before. I invited her to go for a walk. In the hallway CNA Jasmine came in to say that she was coming to get Mom up and she likely needed changing so we returned to bathroom. Mom & I started to change her. Jasmine expressed concern about color and consistency of Mom’s urine. Yvonne returned to her duties stating that she would inform nurse about Mom’s urine. I got Mom changed. Mom’s participation was dull. We went for a walk. I visited briefly with Nurse Diana about hospice. I told Diana that Dr. Maxwell had told me yesterday that she did not agree with me. We headed toward the front of the facility. Mom propelled herself part of the way but less than usual control. Speech Therapist caught up to me and talked to me about a swallowing test with barium to be ordered. She said it is not invasive and would take place in a van on the premises. Mom and I continued outside. Mom’s expression lightened and relaxed when we got outside. We sat quietly for about 10 minutes, looking at the sky and the leaves on the big tree out front. Mom said she was hungry and thirsty so we returned to her dining room. I sat with her and we talked about cows, her childhood. I went to her room and got a bib for her. I got some thickened water for her. It was not nearly as thick as the thickened water in her room and she drank half of the offered cup before I left. I left about Noon. Food was coming in but she had not yet been served.

August 16, 2012, Thursday. I called Dr. Maxwell’s office about 9:10 AM and left a message about my reservations about the barium swallow test. Foxy & I went to the NH about 9:20 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was on her bed sleeping, O2 on. I cranked her bed higher and put Foxy on the bed. TV was on DVD, sound down. She petted Foxy. I wiped her hands with antiseptic lotion. I offered her the cantaloupe smoothie. She ate a little over an ounce. I couldn’t talk her into getting up. She said she was thirsty. I went and got her a coffee. I saw Annie, Recreation, and she asked if my brother brought the birdbath. She suggested that we move it near the feeder. I said I would ask if my brothers had anything to do with the birdbath. (They didn’t.) The Med. Nurse gave me some thickener for the coffee. I did notice some difficulty with swallowing about every other swallow. I gave Mom some hand cream. I reclined her bed to previous position, turned up the sound on TV and we left about 10:40 AM.  I spoke with Nurse Sylvia then also with Nurse Diana about the barium swallow test. Nurse Diana called Speech Therapy about it and left a message. When I got home there was a message on my phone from Dr. Fran recommending against the barium swallow test. Later the Speech therapist called me and we discussed Mom’s swallowing problems and I agreed with her recommendations of using thickeners and a puree diet. Carl called me at home to say that package from Brooks arrived while he was at NH. He opened, showed Mom and hung new clothes in her closet with labels still on.

August 17, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 8:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was at Nurse’s desk with the Speech therapist, Rebecca. Mom has her new teeth!! Rebecca reported that Mom ate better today with assistance from herself and Nurse’s aid. We returned to her room. I gave her yogurt to eat. She ate at least 3 oz. I touched up her fingernails. DVD was on TV, sound down. I cleaned her glasses and picked up her wash. There is NH laundry in with Mom’s clothes. Mom wanted to go to bed so I assisted her to her bed, bedrail up but forgot to put on O2. I turned sound up on DVD. I  left about 9:50. I returned to NH about 11:30 and posted a sign ‘WATCH TEETH” and reorganized top drawer by her bed to accommodate toothbrush, Efferdent and other teeth aids. I got a bed bath and teeth washing basin from the nurse and wrote Mom’s name on them and put them in a drawer in her room. Carl called me later and reported that he visited about 2:30 PM. Mom was asleep with TV on, teeth and glasses in place, no O2. He put her O2 on and left, fed the birds.

August 18, 2012, Saturday. Foxy & I went to the NH about 10:20 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was awake on her bed watching DVD, sound down. The O2 nostril thing was on the floor as if she had taken it off. I put the tubing away and turned off the compressor. I raised the head of her bed. I brought her clean clothes which we hung up. Mom had a lot of difficulty with this task. But if I cued to the neck of garment plus handed her the hanger, she could often get the garment on the hanger. She often could not find the neck without assistance. She had on new glasses. I cleaned them then we looked at the birds. With several cues she spotted the parrots. She enjoyed watching the birds. I changed the TV to Channel 8 news. I rubbed cream on her feet. Mom complained of sensitivity around her toes. Her feet appear normal, no longer swollen. She asked for a drink. CNA Jasmine came and asked if she was ready to get up. I assisted Jasmine in changing Mom in bed then Jasmine assisted Mom into her chair. I said I would bring her to the dining room. It was only about 11:20 AM. I gave her some vanilla yogurt I brought from home. Initially she asked “what am I supposed to do?” I showed her and gave instruction, then she fed herself. She ate perhaps a little over 1 oz. (5 teaspoons?) Then Mom appeared to tire of eating. I gave her water. She drank two deep draughts. She wanted to return to bed but I told her she needed to go to lunch. Jan brought the mail. Mom got two cards, from Quembe and from Helen. We opened and read them. She read the largest words. It took some exchanges for her to grasp the cards and absorb their meaning (“Holy Cow”). I got Foxy and she propelled herself most of the way to the dining room, slowly with pauses. She drank the water as soon as she got to the table. I invited Tina to our party tomorrow. Foxy & I left Mom in the dining room about 11:45 AM. I returned to her room, got my bag and an emery board for Mom. I gave her the emery board file to distract her during the wait to be served.

August 19, 2012, Sunday. Mom’s Birthday. Foxy & I went to the NH about 9:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the TV room. I put her sweater on her. She said she was thirsty. I went to get her a drink. Nurse Lupe gave several packets of thickener for Mom and I put them in the candy drawer in Mom’s room. I talked to the Nurse about Mom’s Party this afternoon. She suggested the big table in the big dining room. I think that’s a good idea.  Nurse Elvita (name?) also told me that Mom did not want to go back to her room after breakfast. We escorted Mom back to her room, opened the blinds. I put Singing in the rain DVD on the TV. Mom did not have her glasses on. Tina reported that the CNA could not find Geraldine’s glasses this morning. I looked for them and could not find them. I got her old glasses out and cleaned them and put them on her. I put Mom to bed. She had more difficulty standing and I had great difficulty helping her. She is too heavy for me, alone. She was very stinky wet so I pushed the call button for assistance in changing her. No help came. She had a small BM in diaper. I changed her on the bed but did a bad job, tore the disposable diaper. I found the painter’s tape in her crafts drawer and taped her diaper together as best I could. I raised the head of bed, put O2 on her, raised the bed rails. I gave her some hand cream and put rouge on her and talked about her birthday. Nurse Elvita came to take Tina’s sugar count and I told her about the bad job I did with the diaper. Foxy & I left about 11:00 AM.

I returned to the NH about 3:20 PM. The large table in the large dining room was occupied so we moved the party to the small dining room. I went to Mom’s room and CNA Vanessa assisted Mom to get up very gently. I turned off the DVD and gave Mom her crown. I pushed Mom to dining room. Carl arrived and Terri called. She is coming. We started opening gifts then had cake and ice cream that Terri brought. Donna came and spoke to me about the party and I realized I should have cleared all this with her, with Recreation. Tina came and had cake and ice cream too. It was pleasant and Mom was happy and cooperative. We cleared up. I wanted to talk to head nurse about Mom’s glasses. Tina reports evidence of invasion of drawers and thing in the room, perhaps related to the disappearance of Mom’s new glasses. We left about 4:50 PM. Mom was in the dining room awaiting supper. Other residents were coming in.

August 20, 2012, Monday. Foxy & I went to NH about 11:55 AM today. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was not in her room so I tied Foxy up near her bed and went to the dining room. Mom was seated at a feeding table. I returned to her room and got her a hair tie then put her hair up. We played some hand games while se waited for the food. She said that she was hungry. She ate about ½ of beef stew, less than ¼ of gravy mixture and a few teaspoons of vegetable mixture.  She ate all of her pudding with encouragement. She would take a few bites of food then complain of being tired then continue with some encouragement. We returned to her room. I put on DVD which interested her but Foxy & I took her outside briefly. We returned to her room. She said her bottom hurt on the right side. I assisted her to get to her bed, put on the O2 and put up the bedrails. Mom had great difficulty standing and maneuvering into good position on the bed. I talked with Nurse Joyce about Mom’s glasses. I believe Mom’s “new glasses” on Saturday were not hers. We left about 1:15 PM. A message from Amy from hospice was on my phone when I returned home. I have an appointment to meet them at 4:30 today at the NH in Mom’s room.

I went to NH about 4:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the big dining room, just leaving an activity with Jan. (puzzles) I escorted her back to her room and put on DVD, opened the blinds. Jane from Austin Hospice came. I left Mom with DVD and colors and went to front with Jane to discuss Hospice agreement.  Then I found Mom at supper alone at a table. I got her bib and her scarf from her room then assisted her eating. She ate perhaps 4 oz. Her swallowing seems slightly improved but soon says she is tired of eating. Then I escorted her back to her room. Tina was in her bed. I left Mom coloring at her table with DVD playing about 7 PM. I fed the birds again.

August 21, 2012, Tuesday. Amy Brenham telephoned this morning and we made an appointment to meet tomorrow at 2 PM at NH. I went to NH about 11:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in spelling activity in the TV room. She was able to spell 3 letter words. I escorted her to lunch room. I put cream rinse on her hair and gave her lip balm and put bib on her. Speech Therapist Theresa explained therapy was D/C’d under hospice. I left about 12:10. Lunch had not yet been served to Mom’s table.

August 22, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH in the morning, fed the birds about 10 AM. The blinds were closed. I got Mom up and accompanied her to Dining room for cocoa and donut piece and music entertainment (oldies). I left about 10:15 with dirty clothes. I left new packet of garbage bag liners in the bottom drawer for the dirty clothes hamper. I returned to NH at 2 PM to meet with Hospice. I fed the birds. The hospice nurse and pastor were there and Mom was resting on her bed. I fixed her O2 and nurse helped. I put DVD of Singing in the Rain on then we went to TV room to meet. I asked about speech therapy. The nurse said that hospice would have to pay for it. I expressed concerns about quality of life in the meantime. Both were very compassionate and appropriate. I felt comforted. I went back to visit Mom but she was sleeping. I left at 2:50 PM.

August 23, 2012, Thursday. Foxy & I went to NH this AM about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. We got Mom up from the bed. I washed her face. She put on rouge and cream. She stood independently for a second. Better than yesterday. We went to the Dining room II and I got her a coffee and asked a kitchen worker for a yogurt. The young man brought us one. I fed Mom with the spoon, avoiding the pieces of strawberry. She ate most of it in about 5 minutes. She drank all the coffee also. Stephanie, guest recreation instructor, initiated chair yoga. Foxy & I left about 10:25 AM. I talked with Nurse Diana and Elvita about rules about clothing donations because some new used clothing is in Mom’s apparel.

August 24, 2012, Friday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds partially open. Mom was on her bed with O2 on and covered with a sheet. I brought clean clothes. TV was off. I opened blinds, put TV on DVD. Mom was alert to my greetings. I raised head of bed, got hangers for putting clothes away. I noticed that she had on shirt, no pants so I put a dress aside to put on her plus got her scarf. I noticed she had on the same socks as yesterday so I pulled them off and saw the spotty discoloration of her feet going up her ankles. I found CNA and she said that Mom was wet and she had changed her and put other pants on her but they weren’t Mom’s so she took them off again. She had not taken her socks off nor noticed the spots. I got new Charge Nurse Hagatha (?) and she looked at Mom’s feet. We couldn’t raise foot of bed because we turned crank the wrong way. We hung up clothes and I put a dress on Mom. I had Mom practice standing. We went to nail salon in Dining room II. Nurse Diana came & found us and looked at Mom’s feet. She introduced me to hospice CNA Wendy. Diana advised keeping feet up and suggested it was the beginning of cellulitus (edema). Diana spoke with Dr. Maxwell who advised that Mom go back to bed, keep feet up immediately after activity and discontinue thickened liquid restriction. I got Mom some ice water after she finished a cup of coffee and she drank most of that. I reported to Nurse Diane that Mom often said that she was thirsty.  I accompanied Mom back to her room and assisted her to bed, raised her feet and left DVD on. We left about 11:15 AM.

August 25, 2012, Saturday. Foxy & I went to NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was in bed, dressed in pants outfit, no teeth. I got her teeth, washed with mouthwash and gave them to her. I brought her a 24 oz. Dr. Pepper. She drank it all. She had on the white socks from the other day again. I changed her socks to clean socks. The spots and swelling on her feet looked slightly improved. We called Brooks and left message on his phone(s). Birthday Greetings. I got Mom up and took her to hear the Bluegrass music performance. Mom held Foxy on her lap for awhile and I rested her feet on my lap. We returned to her room about 4:30 PM and put on one of the new DVDs from Brooks (three new ones!). There was an electronic bed in place of the old crank one, not made up. I went to find sheets and made up the bed. It was time for dinner so I escorted Mom to the dining room. I got her an emery board to entertain her while she waited. We left about 5:10 PM. I fed the birds again.

August 26, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was on her bed TV off. She was fooling with her lower teeth, her upper teeth in her covers. I got them and washed them. Then I gave Mom mouthwash to rinse out her mouth and I looked at her mouth. She successfully spit out mouthwash and also water into pan. I saw some redness Upper Left gums and she complained of discomfort on lower Right. I reported this to Nurse later. I brought egg-bacon-spinach paninis from Einstein’s bagels and we ate them. Mom ate about ¾’s of hers (all but the bread) with assistance. I cut bacon into pieces. It took her about an hour to eat it. I gave her a coffee. She drank all of that. CNA Mary came and got Mom up. We went for a walk. Mom propelled herself in wheelchair most of the way. We sat on the covered patio then returned to her room. I assisted her to the toilet. She had a small BM. Then I put her in her bed. I put cream on her and inspected her feet. Her Left foot remains swollen and warm to touch. Spots seem reduced from yesterday. I reported to the nurse and Nurse looked at her feet and lower legs. I left Mom in bed watching DVD on TV about 1 PM.

August 27, 2012, Monday. Foxy & I went to NH about 7:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in bed, DVD on, sound turned down. I changed the DVD and turned the sound up and opened the blinds. Birds came. No parrots. I put Foxy on her bed and got her teeth from bedside and took them to the bathroom and washed them. They were in container without water. Mom petted Foxy. I adjusted pillows and her bed. We put cream on face, hands & legs. Her feet look better and left foot was cool to touch, right foot slightly warm. We left about 8 PM and Riley was coming as we left. He also brought birdseed. We left as Riley went in to see Mom.

August 28, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 10:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds partially open. Mom was in bed, no O2 with her lower teeth in her mouth upside down. She was rolling them around. I got her teeth out and washed them, opened the blinds, changed the DVD to a new one (Fred A. & Ginger). She was in jamies. She said she was thirsty. She had thickened water by her bed. Too thick to drink. CNA came and assisted Mom in getting dressed and changed her in her bed. We got her up. I gave her a chocolate. Then we went for a walk. I got her a cup of coffee. She drank the coffee down quickly. I spoke to the charge nurse about changing Mom from thickened liquids which I thought had already been done??? I left Mom in Spelling activity about 11:30 AM. I telephoned Hospice Nurse, Amy, and left a message about D/C-ing the thickened liquids. Mom’s hair is significantly thinning and breaking.

August 29, 2012, Wednesday. I did not go to the NH today.

August 30, 2012, Thursday. Foxy & I went to the NH about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds partially open. Mom was sleeping on her bed. I told the Med Nurse that Mom’s thickened fluid restriction had been lifted. The Med Nurse said that she would see to it after she finished giving medications. I got Mom’s dirty clothes to wash. Mom would not stay awake enough for interaction and refused to get up. We left about 10:15 AM.

August 31, 2012, Friday. Foxy & I went to the NH about 10:20 this morning. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom’s door was closed. I knocked. CNA Mary was getting Mom up. Mary said that she had just changed Mom and was changing her shirt, now. I wiped Mom’s face with a warm cloth and gave her a chocolate. I changed the DVD. She said that she was thirsty. There was only a cup of thickened water by her bedside. We accompanied Mom to Dining room II where an activity was in session. I got Mom a coffee then went to find the nurse. I got her to look at her book and ,yes, the restrictions on Mom’s food and liquids had been D/C’d. I offered to go get a pitcher of water for Mom but the Nurse said that would send for one. The Nurse did not feel well (chest pain). I returned to Mom and said good-bye. Foxy & I left about 11:10 AM. Riley called from NH this evening about 6 PM and reported that Mom still does NOT have water in her room and that her supper was pureed.

September 1, 2012, Saturday. I went to NH about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was on her bed. I opened the blinds. I brought clean clothes and a pitcher of cold water. We hung up the clothes. I poured Mom a cup of water which she drank. She started out fairly well with the clothes but became confused and had difficulty as we progressed. Mom seemed distracted by the TV as well as tiring of the problem solving. Her capacity was uneven. She refused to get up. Mom noticed the birds and was able to spot the Cardinal after some direction. I rubbed her feet with cream. There are still some spots and some puffiness in her left foot. We did “this little piggy..” She got it right the second time through. I spoke to Charge Nurse Elvia and left a note for Dr. Maxwell about the thickened liquids and pureed food, requesting that those orders be D/C’d. I returned to Mom and said good-bye. I left the TV on Hallmark channel, at her request. The nurse who did not feel well last night was there as Med Nurse today. She appeared pale and strained but in good humor.

September 2, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH this morning about 11:10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I went inside and found Mom in hallway as if waiting but Jasmine inquired and said she wasn’t. I bought Mom a sippy cup. Mom unwrapped it and Jasmine put ice and water in it. Mom drank and said that she was hungry so I gave her a Reese’s peanut butter cup. I also brought Polident powder denture fixative, Polident cleansers and Dove chocolates. We returned to her room, opened the blinds. Many birds were at the feeder. The pitcher I brought yesterday was emptied and thickened water was by her bedside. I threw out the thickened water. CNA Carla got Mom a RNC pitcher and I put ice and water in it. TV was off. I turned it on. We channel surfed then watched Fred A. DVD. I brushed her hair, put warm cloth on her face and put on cream and rouge. We went to dining room. I got her a cup of coffee. There was thickened water at her place and she drank that also. I left Mom in dining room about 12:05 PM.

September 3, 2012, Monday (Labor Day). Nurse Joyce telephoned this morning about 9 AM to tell me that Mom had fallen. She has no apparent injuries. I called PT and asked about wheelchair brakes. They put in report to Mom’s unit. I went to NH about 10:15 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed.  Mom was on her bed, no O2, feet up, TV off. Joyce reported that Mom had apparently tried to get in her chair but brakes were off. Chair rolled and she slid down to the floor. I spoke with Keith, repair man, and he sprayed contraption with oil. I suspect Mom got restless, got up because the TV was off. I called CNA Jasmine and she assisted changing Mom and getting her up into her chair. I brushed her hair, we watched the birds, and put on hand cream. We went to Dining room II for activity, quiz game, then to covered patio. Then I took her to dining room to await lunch. I got her a coffee. I left about 11:40 AM. I believe this is her FIFTH fall (not counting the wreck into the nurse station).

September 4, 2012, Tuesday.  I went to NH about 9:20 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. CNA was changing Mom when I came into room (door open, TV off). Mom did not have her teeth in. I washed her teeth and gave them to her. I assisted getting Mom up into her chair. I gave Mom raspberry pie, turned on TV, channel surfed and changed DVD to Winged Migration.  CNA returned to take vitals on Mom. I gave her disinfectant for her hands and then brushed her hair. Changed her sweater and put bib on her. Then I went to see Mike in administration about leaving TV on for Mom in order to prevent falls. We also spoke to Sylvia, the administrator. They said that it would be discussed with Sam, the social worker, and with Ms Rolf (Tina). I returned to Mom’s room with ice water in her cup. She had finished her pie. I accompanied her to dining room II for activities. I left her in the dining room, brakes on, with a cup of coffee at about 10:05 AM.

September 5, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 1:15 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in her wheelchair in her room, DVD playing, sound down. I turned sound up, opened the blinds. CNA came in and changed Mom standing up. Mom leaked all over her legs, the chair, shoes. Then we put her on the bed, O2 on. I got sanitary wipes and wiped her feet, changed her socks and put her shoes on dirty clothes hamper. I used disinfectant gel on her hands and washed my hands. I cut Mom’s toenails and put cream on her feet. I changed the DVD and said good-bye to Mom. I went to nurse’s station and signed the waiver for Mom to get mechanical soft food and liquid drink. Dr. Fran was there. She told me that Mom has gained weight (up to 138 from 132). But indications are that infection persists in her system. I complained about changing Mom standing up as being too messy. I left NH about 2:40 PM.

September 6, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 9:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I gave a package of large disposable bed liners to Nurse Elvia. Mom was on her bed, O2 on, TV off. CNA stopped me in the hall and asked about Mom’s nails. I said yes, please clean, cut, file them. I opened blinds, turned on DVD, and gave Mom a chocolate. I picked up the dirty clothes to wash and left by 10:10 AM.

September 7, 2012, Friday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I returned pants for Knickerbocker that were among Mom’s clothes. I had Mom’s washed clothes. I opened the blinds. CNA was with Mom, putting her to bed. I put O2 on Mom as CNA adjusted the bed. Mom & I  hung up her clothes. She had difficulty with problem solving. I turned on TV. We channel surfed then left TV on DVD. We played patty cake and did some hand games. Mom was very tired and refused to go to activity. There was no water pitcher by her bed and there was a cup of thickened water. I asked nurse for water pitcher and Jasmine brought ice water for Mom. Nurse Diane told me that Mom has been hiding her teeth. We left about 10:30 AM. Nurse Elvia called me at 1:30 PM to tell me that Mom’s antibiotic was changed to 7-days of Ceftin 2Xdaily.

September 8, 2012, Saturday.  I called and spoke to Nurse Joyce (?) about 9:10 AM to tell them that I would like to take Mom for a ride in the car. She said that Mom seemed fine for that. Foxy & I went to the NH about 9:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed, while Foxy waited in the car. I gave CNA Carla information about Charlotte needing assistance in her home. I opened the blinds and I got Mom up into her chair. She put on Purell and hand cream and I brushed her hair, cleaned her glasses.  We went to the car then drove to Mrs. Johnson’s Donuts and got 2 dozen. Mom chose a lemon filled donut. We drove around slowly then took a donut to Sharon. Sharon came out and talked to Mom and Foxy. We drove around some more then returned to the NH. Mom did not want to get out of the car but she was tired and agreed to go in to rest. We took a dozen donuts to the Nurses desk then Mom joined activity in the big dining room. I got her a coffee then left about 11:10 AM.

September 9, 2012, Sunday. Foxy & I went to NH about 10:20 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed and left Foxy in the car. I told Nurse Joyce that I wanted to take Mom for a ride and I signed out Geraldine. Mom was asleep on her bed, TV on TVland. She had taken the O2 out of her nose. CNA Carla came in and changed Mom in her bed and assisted her into her chair. I brushed her hair and gave her Purell for her hands. I brought her a hair brush from home and turned off TV. I escorted her to the car. We went to Walgreens and parked in the shade. I gave Mom a donut to eat while I went in. When I returned to the car, the donut was gone and Mom had the 25 foot measuring tape unrolled out the window. I helped her roll it back in then we practiced with the tape measure auto return.  We drove through the neighborhoods looking at flowers and yards on the way back to the NH, Foxy on Mom’s lap. When Mom got out to go back to the NH, Mom made a comment that indicated that she needed to pay more attention. Also I found the donut on the floor, indicating that Mom’s encounter with the measuring tape was likely part of her search for the donut after she dropped it. Mom & I returned to NH and I changed the DVD on Mom’s TV.  I accompanied Mom to Dining room and she went to her place, independently. I got her a coffee. I added more seed to birdfeeder before we left about noon.

September 10, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. CNA Yvonne told me that she was about to get Mom up when I entered the facility. Mom was awake on her bed watching DVD, sound down. I opened the blinds and turned up the sound. Yvonne came in and changed Mom in her bed and got her up and into her chair. I brought Mom a whole donut. We used disinfectant on her hands. I drew her picture while she ate and watched the movie. Then we went to activity room where she participated in domino game with my assistance. She was engaged in activity but was not observant of rules of play. I accompanied her back to her room. I gave her colors and book and turned DVD back on. I left about 4:55 PM.

September 11, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was on her bed, sleeping. Mom was shivering so I got her a sweater. I took home to wash Mom’s dirty clothes. Sound was down on DVD so I turned it up. I left about 10 AM.

September 12, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 5:10 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. I brought Mom’s clothes. Mom was in dining room without her teeth. I accompanied her back to her room and got her to put in her teeth. They were soaking in cleanser.  We hung up her clothes. Carl came by and also fed the birds. He trimmed the flowers and said hello to Mom. I accompanied Mom to dining room about 5:30. Mom’s table was one of the last served about 6 PM. The dining room was mostly cleared out and staff was cleaning up by 6:30 PM. This is not enough time for her to eat. I accompanied Mom back to her room. I cleaned her glasses and put DVD on. CNA Carla assisted Mom to bed and changed her on her bed. I left about 7:10 PM.

September 13, 2012, Thursday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom didn’t have her teeth in but she had seeds or bread crumbs or something in her mouth, rolling it around. CNA assisted Mom into wheelchair and reported that Mom did not want her teeth. I cleaned her mouth, gave her water, had her spit. Then gave her the teeth. I noted paper towels in toilet.  Mom is more confused today and had greater difficulty with simple tasks. Mom was reluctant to smile. I took her for a ride with Foxy on her lap. We bought donuts and she ate a whole one. We returned to NH and Mom did not want to color. I left watching DVD, wheelchair locked.

September 14, 2012, Friday. Foxy & I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open.

Mom on her bed with O2 on, teeth in and DVD playing.  She was combing her hair with her fingers. I gave her a brush. CNA Carla changed Mom in her bed and assisted her into her wheelchair. I noticed sanitary wipes and cream for her in her drawer from hospice. I brought Mom a lemon filled donut, turned off TV and she ate it all. I cleaned her teeth, then we went to Dining room II for games. Mom was agitated so I gave her a pencil, paper and she drew my picture. I got her a coffee which she drank right down. We accompanied Mom back to her room and put on the weather channel. We left her watching the weather channel, wheelchair locked about 11:40. I gave her a fingernail file to keep her hands busy. I returned to NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was on her bed watching the Weather channel. She said she did not want to see a movie. She refused to go to entertainment so I left her on her bed, O2 on, about 4 PM. Mom was more alert today than yesterday but still generally lethargic and distracted.

September 15, 2012, Saturday. I went to the NH about 9:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was on her bed no bedspread, sheet over her watching DVD, combing her hair with her fingers, O2 on the floor. I put conditioner on her hair and gave her a brush. I got ice for her water and gave her some water. She drank about 4 oz. I got her up and we went for a ride in the car. Mom stood up fairly well but lamented difficulty with everything. I picked up postcards from Jennifer then we went to gallery but gallery was closed. We went to Popeye’s chicken and got chicken tenders. On return to NH we sat in the car and ate. I fed the birds again. Mom ate one chicken tender, a bite of biscuit and drank all of 24 oz Pepsi. On returning to her room her diaper fell on the floor, quite full of BM and urine. I called for help and got her on the bed and mostly changed when Jasmine came and assisted. We got her on the bed and I put on DVD and O2. I left about 12:20 PM. Mom was very tired from the adventure.

September 16, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about 9:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was asleep on her bed, no O2, Fox channel on. I channel surfed and settled on Channel 8 news/weather. I washed her face, her teeth, brushed her hair, various personal care. I got out nail care and did her nails. I got her dirty clothes. Mom did not want to get up. I left her in her bed, O2 on, DVD playing about 11:30 AM. I returned to NH about 7 PM with clean clothes. I fed the birds. Mom was in bed in NH nightie. We hung up her clothes and I gave her a hat. I took out her teeth and put them in cleanser. I cleaned her glasses and gave Mom her glasses. I left about 7:40 PM, DVD on TV.

September 17, 2012, Monday. I arrived at NH about 5:15 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I went to her room, opened the blinds, talked with Tina. Tina reported that Mom had not been at lunch and something was brought to her later. I noticed Mom’s teeth on her night stand. They were in denture cleanser solution so I rinsed them then showed them to Nurse Diana, supposing that she had been without her teeth all day. I took them to Mom in the dining room at her table. I brought her a hat and bib and visited with Mom while waiting for food. I drew a picture of Mom while we waited. Food was served at about 5:45 PM. Mom ate well. I accompanied her back to her room. We went into bathroom and Mom washed her hands and rinsed her teeth with assistance. Tina reported seeing 15 parrots while we were at supper. A CNA came and assisted Mom to bed. She changed Mom in bed and I noticed that red spot on left buttocks is much better, healed. The hospice supplied wipes and cream seem to have worked. Mom wanted blinds closed and her teeth in. I left about 7:15 PM. I fed the birds again.

September 18, 2012, Tuesday. I arrived at NH about 10:05 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was on her bed, under covers, teeth in, DVD on, glasses on night stand. It appeared that Mom had teeth in from yesterday, denture cleanser unused. I took her teeth and brushed them, then got Mom to rinse out her mouth and brush her gums. She put her teeth in. She had water in her covered cup but no ice. I got ice for her cup and spoke with Nurse Diane. Diane asked about her teeth and we talked about strategies.

I gave Mom sanitary lotion for her hands then hand cream. I changed the channel to TCM and silent movie. She said she wanted to watch it. I encouraged her to get up but she refused. I got a pillow slip for pillow and put it under her legs, checked skin on her legs. I adjusted bed and covers. I left about 10:50 AM.

September 19, 2012 Wednesday. I arrived at NH about1 PM. I fed the birds blinds open. Mom was resting on her bed. I gave her some personal care, adjusted her TV then went to the NH thank you luncheon for Volunteers. I met Harris, Kelly and saw Barbara. We shared a table. After the luncheon I went to Mom’s room. She was asleep, DVD on.

September 20, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 10:15 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I tried to get Mom up but she did not want to get up. I gave her personal care. I left about 11:10 AM.

September 21, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 9:10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I noticed the spilled thickened water and cleaned up the mess. I took the thickened water to Nurses to complain again. They checked all the orders and discovered that the orders for night staff had Not been changed. I got ice water for Mom.  I gave Mom personal care. Mom did not want to get up. We channel surfed then I changed the DVD to Winged Migration.  I left about 10:30 AM.

September 22, 2012, Saturday. I didn’t go to NH. I stayed home sick. Riley went by twice and fed the birds.

September 23, 2012, Sunday. I didn’t go to NH. I stayed home sick. Carl went to NH and brought Mom’s dirty clothes to me for washing.

September 24, 2012, Monday. I washed Mom’s clothes. I did not go to the NH. Riley did.

September 25, 2012, Tuesday. Foxy & I went to NH about 9:15 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Seed was left from yesterday. I spoke to Nurse Elvia at her desk. She said she had just called me to tell me that Mom has a skin tear on her right arm and a fever. I brought clean clothes to hang up. Mom was very shaky and had difficulty understanding conversation. Mom assisted in hanging up clothes very minimally. I got her some ice water. Medication nurse brought her some Tylenol and Elvia came in and encouraged drinking water. Annie, rec. therapist, told me that Riley played piano and entertained to everyone’s delight over the week-end. Foxy & I left about 10:30 AM.

September 26, 2012, Wednesday. I went to the NH about 3:15 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was asleep on her bed, O2 on.  I woke her and put cream on her feet, legs, personal care. She felt quite warm all over. I gave her a chocolate and water to drink. Then I washed her teeth. Med. Nurse brought in medication and couldn’t get blood pressure reading. Mom complained of discomfort with teeth on lower right. I reported to Nurse. Mom was more disoriented than usual. Initially did not know her name, my name nor her mothers. Perhaps she was sleepy. Some conversation brought some back to her. I got half a cup of coffee for her. She drank that. Her hands appeared more frail. She did some leg lifts and wiggled her toes. I changed the DVD. I left about 4:40 PM. I fed the birds again.

September 27, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 9:10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was resting on her bed. She seemed better today, cooler to the touch. We did some personal care. I gave her a hat which she liked. I washed her teeth and used a Q-tip with mouthwash on her gums.  I encouraged her to get up but she refused. I brought a wish-bone. She made a wish “to stay here”. Both Tina and Nurse Sylvia reported that Mom had been up and around early this morning. I left about 10:10 AM.

September 28, 2012, Friday. Foxy & I went to NH this morning about 9:30 AM. I fed the birds blinds open. Mom was resting on bed, TV off and no O2. I put on the O2, cleaned her glasses and turned on a DVD.  I gave her a homemade cookie. She ate well. We did some personal care. Mary came and changed Mom and got her into her wheelchair. I took Mom for a ride. She did Not want a donut. She wanted a tamale. I got her a potato & egg soft taco at the Tamale House. She ate about 1/3 of it. We went to feed store and I bought birdseed and dog treats. We returned to NH. Mom did not want to go to her room but wanted to go to lunch. It was too early so I took her to the bell ringing activity. She was glad to participate. I talked to Dr. Fran. Doctor told me that Mom had had an episode of super fast heartbeat. Perhaps that is why she felt so warm on Wed.? She discussed change in medication that gave Mom nausea OR the less effective medication that didn’t quite control the heart rate. Foxy & I left about 11:30. It is becoming awkward to bring Foxy. Foxy does not show affection to Mom as he did in the past although he enjoys visiting the NH.

September 29, 2012, Saturday. I went to the NH about 10:00 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed, O2 on, looking well. I raised the foot of bed, adjusted her in bed, opened the blinds. I gave her a chocolate and put on new DVD from Brooks. She looked at the card and loved the Brooks painting. The new DVD played well and Mom enjoyed the Parrots of Telegraph Hill, watched it with attention. We did some hand cream. I cleaned her glasses and we did some hand jive and a bit of exercise. Mom refused my encouragement to get up. Nurse Diane told me that Dr. Jackson found nothing in Mom’s mouth to indicate any problem with fit of teeth. I brushed Mom’s teeth. I left about 11:00 AM.

Mary from NH telephoned about 6 PM to report Mom had fallen about 5:45, no evidence of injury. I went to NH about 7 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was in TV room. She greeted me and said, “Sit down and watch the show.” CNA Rosalinda assisted Mom to her room to put her to bed and change her. DVD was on TV. Tina reported to me about Mom’s fall, that Mom had attempted to get up several times. Mom stood pretty well in transfer to bed. Mom had BM in diaper and Rosalinda cleaned her up. No blanket for her bed so I got bedspread out of drawer and put it on Mom plus her hat. I did some personal care. I left about 7:40 PM.

September 30, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about1 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the dining room still, eating. I assisted her then we returned to her room. I showed her photos. We channel surfed. I pushed call button. CNA Mary came after about ½ hour. I assisted Mom onto Bed. Mom was not cooperative, wouldn’t try. She has strength but won’t use it without direction. Upon instruction she will lean forward, take the object in her hand but will not reach for it. Mary came and we changed her dress and diaper. I noted evidence of feces on wheelchair and wiped it down. I put Mom’s O2 on, adjusted bed. I changed the DVD and left about 2:30 PM. I brought dirty clothes home.

October 1, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 4:50 PM. I fed the birds, blinds half open. I gave some paint & brushes to Jan, Recreation. Mom was resting on her bed, no O2 (Tina was having supper in the room). I did some personal care and we channel surfed. Mom did not want to get up. I put on her O2 and left DVD playing. I left about 5:40 PM. Nurse Steve called at 7:15 PM and said that Mom had fallen, no injuries. From the description of her fall, I suspect that Mom was left in her room in her wheelchair and she was trying to get into her bed independently.

October 2, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 9:35 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. I saw no birds in vicinity. Mom was resting on her bed watching DVD, sound off. I brought clean clothes. We hung up her clothes. Mom was more skillful in handling clothes than last time we did this. I did some personal care. Mom refused to get up. I had her do some leg lifts. I spoke to Nurse Elvia about the lack of a water pitcher by Mom’s bed. She said that Mom should have one and that she would speak to CNA about this. I left about 10:30 AM. There was still no sign of birds.

October 3, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 1 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was sitting in her wheelchair in the hallway eating a booster drink with a spoon. Hospice nurse visited with us in the hallway. I got her bib for her and accompanied her to her room. The CNA was there taking Tina’s vital signs and she changed Mom’s diaper.  Hospice pastor came and visited Mom in her room. I visited with the Nurse to give privacy. Mom and I went outside then we went to the covered patio. Mom drew flowers in my sketch book. We returned to Mom’s room and I tried to help her to her bed but she did not, could not support herself and I made a mess of it, almost dropped her. CNA Yvonne came and assisted getting Mom situated in bed. We did some personal care. I put the TV on DVD and left about 2:30 PM.

October 4, 2012, Thursday. I went to the NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. I brought her an autumn themed wreath for her door. Mom was resting on her bed, with her O2 pulled off. TV was off.  I got her O2 back on and we did some personal care. She did not want to get up. She was watching the birds.  I got photographs to show her and she could not identify all the children nor her sisters. She did better with her sisters. She seemed alert and self-aware with confusion as to place and time. I had a hard time getting her to reach and take objects for herself. We channel surfed a little then I put on the DVD of the Wild Parrots.  The new newsletter was in her room and I posted the schedule. Then I spoke to Nurse Diane about the scheduling of Mom’s care plan, now scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 25. I left about 11:10 AM.

October 5, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 10:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was resting on her bed. She had pulled off her O2 and was vigorously stroking her hair. I gave her a hair brush and put wet warm cloth on her face which calmed her and she enjoyed. I put her O2 back on her. She brushed her hair and gave me the brush back. I turned up the sound on the Wild Parrot DVD and cleaned her glasses. She watched video and the birds outside with interest. We looked at old photos from her wall. She easily identified her grandmother Riley. She did not know herself in photograph taken when she was in her 50’s. She could not identify Russ, Riley, Helen & Cynthia in photos. She easily picked out Brooks in photos. She seemed generally alert. I almost got her up but then she refused. I paid NH at front office and spoke with Nurses Diane and Elvia. They showed me wad of hair that Mom had pulled out of her head, about the size of a handball. Also there was a barrette that I did not recognize as being Mom’s. I left about 11:20 AM.

October 6, 2012, Saturday. I went to NH about 9:15 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed, O2 on. We did some personal care. She refused to get up. I left about 9:50 AM. I fed the birds again. I returned to NH about 3 PM. We did some personal care. I assisted the CNA getting Mom into her wheelchair. We went to the entertainment, singer, guitar player, Eric L. I got colors and pad and I did a portrait of the performer and Mom colored in the sketchbook. Her work was colorful and abstract. I gave my picture to the performer. The music was good. Mom drank 1 ½ cups of coffee. I accompanied her to her room. I assisted Nurse Steve putting Mom back on her bed. I left DVD of the Wild Parrots on the TV. I left about 4:40 PM. I brought home her dirty clothes to wash.

October 7, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting in her room, on her bed, TV off, O2 on. I brought clean clothes. I opened the blinds and we did some personal care. Mom and I hung up her clothes. Mom had great difficulty identifying how to hang up clothing. It seems cognitive rather than visual problems but I’m not certain. I got out colors and drew two birds on blank paper. I colored one while she colored the other. She colors with jerky separated lines. We watched the birds out the window. I turned the DVD on. I left Mom resting about 11:15 AM. I fed the birds again. 

October 8, 2012, Monday. I didn’t go to NH

October 9, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was sleeping on her bed, O2 on. TV was on The View. I showed Mom the newspapers from Lu in the Seychelles. She seemed confused about who Lucretia was at first. With prompting she recalled but I couldn’t elicit evidence that she associated Lu with the photos and news. We did some personal care. I channel surfed some then put on the DVD about the parrots. She also watched the birds at the feeder. We colored some. Mom tired quickly. I left about 11 AM. I stopped and visited some with nurse Diane.

October 11, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 9:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. There was seed in the feeder and bees at the old apples pieces. Mom was resting on her bed, no O2. The CNA came in and talked to me about Mom’s lack of appetite and said that her weight loss continues. I put on O2. We did some personal care. We channel surfed and then I left DVD back on the Fred A. film. I left about 10:20 AM.

October 12, 2012, Friday. I went to the NH about 5:50 PM. I parked on the street because the parking lot was being prepared for the 34^th annual BarBQ and street dance. I fed the birds, blinds closed.  The CNA told me that she had just put Mom to bed. Mom was in bed, O2 on, teeth out. I got her dressed, brushed her teeth, put her teeth in. Nurse Steve came and helped me put Mom in her wheelchair and we went to the party. I ate, and gave Mom a few bites of watermelon which she ate readily. We also had sugar free ice cream. Mom enjoyed the music. I accompanied her back to her room. I called for help and tried putting Mom to bed myself. The Med nurse came to give Mom her meds and saw Mom cockamamie on the bed and called for help. CAN Rashonda came and helped us get Mom in the bed. I left about 8:10 PM., DVD on.   

October 13, 2012, Saturday. I went to NH about 3PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed, O2 on, DVD playing. We did some personal care and I called for help to get Mom up. She was agreeable to go listen to music. She really enjoyed last night. We went to the Dining room and colored while we waited for band, Backyard Boys & a Girl, to start. I got Mom a coffee which she drank it right down. We returned to her room about 4:30 PM and watched some of GHANDI on TCM. She had a cookie. I showed her photos. She recognized her sisters and her oldest 4 children. She got a letter from Quembe. I accompanied her to the dining room and got her another coffee. I left about 5:10 PM. I fed the birds again.

October 14, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about 2:50 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed, no O2, TV off. I brought clean clothes. I opened blinds and Mom & I hung up the clothes. Mom was had difficulty with task. She counted the hangers. We did some personal care. A CNA assisted getting Mom into wheelchair. I bribed Mom with chocolate to get her to get up. We went to the program of the Ebenezer Baptist Church Men’s choir and the Episcopal student’s service. I got her a coffee. The singing was marvelous and Mom enjoyed that a lot.  I took her back to her room and Yvonne helped me get her back on the bed. I found $.75 in her drawer and returned it to Tina. Tina said it was for some perfume. I suggested that share cookies or chips with Mom would be better. I left about 5:10 PM. I left DVD of Parrots on the TV. I fed the birds again.