Oct. 15, 2012 - Dec. 24, 2012

October 15, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed.  Mom was resting on her bed, no teeth and she had pulled her O2 off. I washed her teeth, put her O2 on her. Yvonne came and helped me get Mom into her wheelchair. Yvonne was very caring with Mom and Mom was cooperative with Yvonne.  Mom said she was hungry several times. We went to soda machine and got her a Dr. Pepper. She drank it greedily. We sat on the covered porch awhile then went to the Dining room II for games. Mom did not want to play. Annie invited Mom to play the piano so I accompanied her to the piano. Mom insisted that couldn’t play. With some effort I got her to fool with the piano some. She still demonstrates skill. The Hospice social worker, Peg Maupin, stopped by and we visited some, away from Mom’s hearing. I accompanied Mom back to her room. We looked at photos. Today she didn’t know or refused? To identify her children and struggled to identify her sisters and parents. I told Nurse Diane I would like to paint her portrait and we made an appointment. I left Mom on her bed with O2 watching Parrot DVD about 4:30 PM. Carl says he went by about 5:30 and Mom was at her meal. He gave her a banana.

October 16, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 11 AM.  I fed the birds, blinds closed. When I entered Mom’s room CNA Annabelle was changing Mom standing up. The CNA hurried away leaving a mess on the floor. I wiped Mom’s legs and put towel on puddle of urine and excrement on the floor. She had on the same dress as the day before and very messy on her front. We did some personal care. DVD video was unplugged and TV was on Animal Planet. I changed DVD to Singing in the Rain and plugged in video. We did some personal care and I accompanied Mom to dining room. I got her a cup of coffee. I complained to Nurse Diane about changing standing up. I left about 12:10 PM.

October 17, 2012, Wednesday. I went to the NH about 3:50 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the activities with a puzzle.  A volunteer was at the table assisting residents with a matching game. I helped Mom work the puzzle. I had to hand her the pieces one at a time in order. She did better going bottom to top rather than across. We went back to her room and did some personal care. She was very neat and clean today. Yvonne was on duty. Mom ate a cookie. Then we went outside. I asked “what are you thinking?” She said” I was think that all the stuff in the house isn’t worth anything except the flowers.” We looked at the flowers around the facility. And we went around the facility looking for the unmarked clothes. We got her bib and I took her into the dining room and I got her an ice water. I left about 5:30 PM. I took home the flowers from her room as they were in bad shape.

October 18, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 10:45 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was asleep on her bed, O2 on, DVD on, sound down.  I opened the blinds and we did some personal care. I got out colors and Mom colored, sitting in bed. CNA came in and told me that Mom’s blood pressure and O2 level was alarming low this morning. I got Mom to do some leg lifts and exercise with plastic dumbbell. I gave the stuffed dog to her to pet and stroke. I left Mom watching DVD, sound turned up, in bed. I left about 11:40 AM.

October 19, 2012, Friday. I went to the NH about 11:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I opened her blinds then went to find her. Mom was in the dining room. I assisted her eating. I got her a coffee as there was no water at her place. She drank it down quickly. She drank all of her small vitamin shake.  She was served food about 12:25 PM. She ate about ¼ of her food and ¾ of her dessert cake. We went for a walk around the facility then went out front and sat in the nice weather. I accompanied her back to her room and asked for assistance putting her back to bed. CNA Annabelle came and assisted after searching for a bed pad. She changed Mom in bed. Mom & I did some personal care. I left DVD of Parrots on the TV. Tina reported that Mom was tested for O2 and blood pressure in pre dawn hours. I noted that Mom’s index fingers have been cleaned of polish. I left about 2 PM.

October 20, 2012, Sat. I did not go to NH. I went to Ft. Worth.

October 21, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was anxious and I gave her the stuffed dog to pet which she petted enthusiastically. We looked at the photos that Quembe sent and looked at the card from Brooks. We did some personal care. We went to the Methodist service in the dining room II. After service we went back to her room and watched the new DVD about Whales from Brooks.  I got her clothes to wash. I left the fingernail file by her bed and the dog on her bed. I spoke to Nurse Steve about Mom’s nervous energy. I took Mom to the dining room. There was no water at her place. I got her some water in a Styrofoam cup. I left about 5:30 PM.

October 22, 2012, Monday. I went to the NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I noticed fresh flowers in Mom’s room (from Carl). Mom was in dining room II sitting alone. I got the bean bags and we played bean bags. Her coordination improved through the game. We returned to her room and hung up the clothes. Her understanding of the task was slightly better than the last time we did this. She demonstrated some independent initiative in leg lifts. I changed the DVD to Fred Astaire. I accompanied Mom to dining room. Again her table was one water glass short. I got Mom a coffee. I left Mom in dining room about 5:15 PM.

October 23, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 6:45 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Someone had put broken bread & cake in feeder. Yvonne was putting Mom to bed. I changed the DVD. I showed Mom some photographs. She had difficulty identifying her children but identified her sisters and parents well. We did some personal care. I left about 7:40 PM.

October 24, 2012, Wednesday.  I went to NH about 2:50 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed watching TCM. I changed the DVD. The one on the player was skipping. I raised her head, cleaned her glasses, opened the blinds and we did some personal care. She had on a pair of pants that I have never seen before. I went to her Care Plan Meeting at 3:15. It was informative. I got an explanation of her decline and had an opportunity to describe changes I have seen. Hospice was represented by Social Worker and Nurse. Nurse Diane was there and Donna from Recreation. The meeting adjourned about 4 PM. I went to see Mom again and asked her if she wanted to get up but she said that she didn’t. I left about 4:15 PM.

October 25, 2012. Thursday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was sound asleep on her bed. I opened the blinds, turned up the sound on the DVD (TOP HAT) and we did some personal care. Mom was very sleepy. I left about 10:20 AM.

October 26, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 3:00 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Bird food and bread was in feeder. Mom was resting on her bed. Yvonne came and assisted getting Mom up. I found some slacks for her and changed her sweater and gave Mom the red and black beads plus her green beads. DVD was on, sound down. Yvonne took her O2 level. It was 90, a little low. She said that when she came on, Mom did not have O2 on. I accompanied Mom to entertainment in dining room II, Jon Emery. I sketched performer and Mom, too. Mom enjoyed cookies and small drink. Mom had difficulty responding to environment but when we clapped to music she was on the beat. She also was having a lot of mucus, sinus drainage. I accompanied Mom back to her room. I assisted her back and onto her bed. I told Nurse Steve about Mom’s excess mucus. He said he would check on her. I left about 4:40 PM, DVD on, sound up.

October 27, 2012, Saturday. I went to NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in dining room II with the blue grass singer entertainment. I left bag of winter clothes in her room and joined her. Mom was sitting with Tina and had a coffee. We colored some, during entertainment. Mom seemed alert but wasn’t on the beat as much today. She was having a lot of sinus and coughing. About 4:30 we returned to her room and we put her clothes away. I opened the blinds and watched the birds. Tina said that Mom’s O2 was raised to 4 overnight. I checked and it was set on 4. Yvonne checked mom’s O2 level. It was 89. In the room while watching Fred A. on TV, her coughing and sniffing decreased. I accompanied Mom to dining room for supper. I added more birdseed and left about 5:30 PM. I brought dirty clothes home to wash.

October 28, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds and the blinds were open. Mom was resting on her bed watching DVD, sound up. She had pulled off her O2 and she had no teeth. They were at her bedside in sudsy water. We hung up the clean clothes which I brought. CNA came and helped get her up and changed her diaper. I rinsed her teeth and CNA & I groomed her and got her adjusted in wheelchair. The apparatus for a breathing treatment was on her bedside table. Mom was coughing. We did some personal care and went to the machine to get a Dr. Pepper. We split the Dr. Pepper which Mom drank enthusiastically. We went to the dining room II for the Halloween parade of children & parents. Mom enjoyed that a lot. I took her back to her room and got her bib. Tina reported that the CNA this morning (who would have been responsible for helping Mom put in her teeth) was Mary. I accompanied Mom to the dining room and got her a coffee. The parade came through there also.  I left about 5:15 PM.

October 29, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 3:40 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was sleeping on her bed watching DVD, O2 on. I opened the blinds and woke up Mom. She was coughing a lot. I gave her a gum drop and washed her teeth. We did some personal care. Mom was fussy and did not want to get up. We channel surfed and did some exercises in bed. She was out of Kleenex so I came home and got some for her. We looked at photos. Mom felt warm to me. The CNA came in to get her up. CNA took temperature and O2 level. Temp was 98.5 and O2 was very low (51?)  I spoke to Nurse Diane and asked for Tylenol for her and feeding her in room instead of in the dining room. I left about 5:20 PM.

October 30, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 10:40AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was sleeping on her bed, O2 on and DVD on, sound up. I cleaned her glasses on her bed table. I did not wake her, just straightened up a bit. I asked Nurse Diane if there was any news. She said no. I left about 11:10 AM. Nurse Diane telephoned about 5:30 to say that Mom’s Mucinex had been increased by Dr. Maxwell. I returned to NH about 6:50 PM. The birdseed was full, blinds open. Tina reported that Carl had brought flowers and visited. LaShonda was putting Mom to bed. Mom still had a lot of coughing and mucus drainage. I did some personal care and left Mom in bed, watching DVD of Parrots about 7:20 PM.

October 31, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH this afternoon at about 1:20 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. A CNA was putting Mom on her bed when I arrived. We did some personal care, channel surfed. Mom was coughing less, less mucus. I put her witch hat on her wheelchair for the festivities. I left the TV on DVD of parrots about 1:50 PM. I returned about 3:30 PM, blinds open. Mom was in dining room II, organ music, punch and cookies and many in costume. She had her witch hat on. I got her sweater for her. Then the belly dancers entertained and we clapped and enjoyed. I accompanied Mom to her room and put a bib on her. I took her hat home with me. Tina said that Mom has called out for me in the night, called my name. I accompanied Mom to dining room. I left about 5:15 PM. Mom seems better.

November 1, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 4 PM, fed the birds, blinds ½ open. Mom was resting on her bed watching TV. I put on DVD after channel surfing. We did some personal care then I called for assistance to get Mom up. Tina came in and seemed very sick, to her stomach? Mom is coughing more today, more mucus. We looked at photos and she mis-identified several people. Said her Daddy’s name was A.L. Hickerson, for example. CNA came and we got cleaned up and into her chair. I accompanied her to dining room and I got her a cup of coffee. I left about 5:20 PM.

November 2, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 3:40 PM, fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was resting on her bed. She was in a recalcitrant humor. I gave her water to drink, hand cream, rubbed her feet. The Nurses aid came in and we got Mom up into her wheelchair. I accompanied her to entertainment and treats (potato chips, dip) and she cheered up. Mom is coughing a lot. After entertainment, we went to the covered patio and sat a bit. Then we returned to her room and colored a little. Then I accompanied her to the dining room and got her a coffee. Tina is much better today. I left about 5:20 PM.

November 3, 2012, Saturday. I went to NH about 2:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was sleeping on her bed, I opened blinds and Mom awoke. We did some personal care and I got her up to go to song & dance performance in dining room II. Mom was coughing a lot throughout visit. We returned to her room then I accompanied Mom to dining room for supper. I left about 5:15 PM with her dirty clothes to wash. Nurse says that Mom is down to 134 lbs.

November 4, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH about 11:00 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the dining room awaiting lunch. I took Mom outside and we looked at the birds on the telephone lines. Then we went to Mom’s room and channel surfed a little bit. The med nurse came and gave her a breathing medication. We did some personal care. Then I accompanied her back to the dining room for her lunch. I got her a coffee and left about 11:45 AM.

November 5, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 2:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. I brought her clean clothes. Mom was asleep, TV off. We hung up her clothes. I noticed (Tina pointed out) Mom’s clothes on her side and I hung a sweater up for Tina. I asked Mom if she wanted to go for a ride and she said “Yes” so I checked her out and took her with me to pick-up paintings from Phoenix Trade Depot. We stopped and got a coca-cola. On returning Mom did not want to return to NH. She asked me “Why?”. I told her that I couldn’t keep her alive but they could. She was pretty cooperative today, all in all. We went to dining room II and played 1 game of dominoes. Then I accompanied her to her room and put on a DVD of Winged Migration. CNA assisted getting Mom onto bed to rest. I left about 4:30 PM. Her coughing continues.

November 6, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 9:50 AM. I fed the birds. We did some personal care and a CNA assisted getting Mom into her chair. I accompanied Mom to activity in dining room II, bowling. I got Mom a coffee. I left about 10:30 AM.

November 7, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 2 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was sleeping on her bed, O2 on, TV on weather channel. I opened blinds and changed DVD to Parrots. I got Mom up and took Mom to art activity at 2:30 in dining room II conducted by volunteer, Pat. She had a lot of art supplies. Mr. Everett and Mary and Pat’s sister-in-law, Judy, were also there. I brought Mom’s colors, too. Mom enjoyed the watercolor pencils enormously! She really enjoyed working in the group although benefited from assistance and encouragement. She did not work a lot independently but did enjoy periods of invention and activity. Mary and Mr. Everett produced some beautiful work. They both have art backgrounds. There was a lot of talking and laughing. I got Mom a coffee which she drank right down. I took Mom back to her room about 3:55 PM. CNA came and assisted me getting Mom back on the bed. Nurse Steve came by with new Nurse Gary, introducing him. Mom was in a very good humor and tired after art class. I left about 4:15 PM, fed the birds again.

November 8, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 9:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was asleep on her bed watching parrot DVD, sound down. I opened the blinds and got Mom up and into her chair. I accompanied Mom to Nail Spa in dining room II. I did her nails and assisted a woman named Isabella. We returned to her room and did some personal care. I helped her onto her bed and put her O2 back on her. I left about 11 AM.

November 9, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I found Mom in dining room II without her glasses. I got her glasses and a warm cloth to wipe her face. We participated in an exercise program and current events discussion. I accompanied Mom back to her room to do some personal care. We went out front of NH and sat outside in lovely weather then I accompanied her to dining room for lunch. I got her a coffee. I left the NH about 11:15 AM. Riley reports he visited and played piano during lunch.

November 10, 2012, Saturday. I went to the NH about 9:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was asleep on her bed, O2 on. I opened the blinds and did some personal care. Her glasses were hanging on the wall. Mom was very neat and clean and tired. I left about 10:15 AM.

November 11, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about 9:45 AM. I fed the birds blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed without her teeth. The O2 machine was on but the tubes were wrapped up in plastic bag. Her glasses were hanging on the wall. Her teeth were in soapy water on her bedside. I rinsed her teeth, cleaned her glasses and we did some personal care. I changed the DVD to “Singing in the rain.” I left about 10:40 AM.

November 12, 2012, Monday. Veteran’s Day observed. I went to NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed, watching DVD without her glasses, sound down, O2 on. I opened blinds, turned up the sound. We did some personal care. I got her crayons and Mom colored. Mom seemed alert and self aware. CNA Vanessa, came and assisted Mom to get up, changed her. I accompanied her to dining room, got her a coffee. I left NH about 5 PM.

November 13, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 10:30 AM. I fed the birds blinds half open. Mom was asleep on her bed. I adjusted her blinds and she awoke. I gave her a cookie to eat.  I turned up the sound on TV and we channel surfed. I drew her and she watched TV. We did some personal care.  I left about 11:30 AM.  

November 14, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 2 PM. The blinds were open. The birdfeeder was full and Carl was there sitting on Mom’s bed, O2 on. Mom was finishing a banana that Carl brought. There were fresh flowers in the vase. Carl said he brought those yesterday. After Carl left, Hospice nurse came in with new Hospice Nurse, Mary. Hospice nurse took Mom’s vitals (97.5) and they assisted Mom to get into her wheelchair. I accompanied Mom to art class with Pat. Today she did a watercolor landscape. I drew Mom. She signed her painting “Geraldine Clark”!  Two other residents, Mary and Tom also drew and painted. Mom had a coffee and a brownie brought by Pat. I had one, too. I accompanied Mom back to her room and helped her back onto her bed. I left about 4:30 PM. Note: Mom gets very quiet and complacent, unassertive, in company, when there is activity around her.

November 15, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds half open. Mom was resting on her bed, O2 on. I turned the sound up on DVD then we channel surfed. The C.N. A. came in and helped Mom get into her wheelchair. We did some personal care. I found the letter from Quembe with photographs. I took Mom for a walk with Mom wheeling herself some of the time. We stopped by the yoga class but Mom couldn’t follow so we went to the front of the facility. Mom’s cough is gone. I gave Mom’s Medicaid card to the front office. We returned to Mom’s room and I helped Mom back into bed. The hospice chaplain came by. Mom said today that she was raised Baptist. That’s news to me. The chaplain & I sang some songs. The chaplain left. I put the O2 back on and left about 11 AM. I visited with Nurse Diane before I left about Mom’s “dreamy” state.

November 16, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was in her bed, in nightgown, no teeth. She asked for her teeth. Alert! C.N.A. Vanessa changed, dressed Mom and assisted Mom to get up into wheelchair. We did some personal care then went to dining room II for performance and snacks. I sketched the performers. After the performance Mom and I went to the office and I paid for 2 more guests for Thanksgiving. We returned to her room and I put a bib on her then accompanied her to the dining room. I left about 5:15 PM with Mom’s dirty laundry. I fed the birds again.

November 17, 2012, Saturday. I went to NH about 10:30 AM. I fed the birds blind closed. Mom was resting on her bed watching TV. We did some personal care. I changed her DVD. I left about 11:15 AM.

November 18, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH today about 11 AM. I fed the birds blinds closed. Mom was in the bathroom with Mary, C.N.A. When she came out Mom and I did some personal care. Mom liked the colorful gift from Sharon, flashing light. I put some clean socks in her drawer, now writing also “205 B” in addition to her name. Fresh flowers in the vase indicate a Carl visit yesterday. The DVD was skipping and looks dirty so I brought it home. I accompanied Mom to the dining room. We talked and I got her a coffee. I left about 12:15 PM.

November 19, 2012, Monday. I went to the NH about 4:30 PM. I fed the bird, blinds open. Mom was in dining room II. I accompanied her back to her room.  I brought her clean clothes and we put them on hangers. We looked at old photos and talked. We did some personal care and I accompanied her to the dining room for supper. I got her a cup of coffee. There was no water at her place so I got her some water also. I left about 5:30 PM.

November 20, 2012, Tuesday. I went to the NH about 10:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds half open. Mom was in the hallway near the Nurse’s station. We returned to her room to retrieve her glasses and do some personal care. Mom was more alert than yesterday. I put her bib on her and accompanied her to an activity for Spelling in the TV room. I left about 11:20 AM.

November 21, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 2:00 PM. I fed the birds, blinds half open. Mom was asleep on her bed. I gave Mom a cookie and got Mom up. She was resting without pants on. We did some personal care then went to the art activity, watercolor painting, conducted by Pat Stebbins, volunteer. There were more participants this time but Tom didn’t attend. Pat set up a still life of pumpkin, peppers, sweet potato, etc. She also served banana nut bread muffins. Mom did a watercolor, working with me and also independently. I also assisted Elizabeth. Eleanor and Mary also did watercolors. Carl came by and greeted us in the activity and fed the birds. I accompanied Mom back to her room and helped back onto her bed. I left TV on TCM.

November 22, 2012, Thursday. (Thanksgiving) I went to the NH about 10:15 AM. I fed the birds, blinds half open. I brought a Christmas Wreath and to replace the Halloween wreath on the 205 door. Mom was asleep on her bed with O2, no glasses, no teeth. I showed her the wreath. I got her teeth, washed them and gave them to her. Cleaned her glasses and wanted to channel surf but discovered one battery missing from remote control. I brought home to wash her dirty clothes. I left about 11 AM. I returned to NH for T-Day about 5 PM. Carl & Charlotte were in Mom’s room. We found Mom in dining room I. Our table was in Dining room II so we went there. Riley arrived and then Terri. We ate T-Day meal. Brooks telephoned. Terri took food to go. Then Riley left. Carl and Charlotte left. I accompanied Mom back to her room. C.N.A. Yvonne assisted Mom to bed. I put a battery in Mom’s remote. I left about 7 PM. It was a fun get together. I met Bernice and Ran’s son, Orrin.

November 23, 2012, Friday. I went to the NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed. The C.N.A. Vanessa tried to get a O2 level on Mom but couldn’t get it. The Hospice nurse, Amy with the new nurse, Mary came in and visited. I asked about Mom’s O2 level. No luck but Mom demonstrated no distress. I clipped mom’s toenails then got her up. We did some personal care. Vanessa returned and got an O2 level of 85. Mom & I went to the piano concert, John Hudspeth. I sketched the performer and gave it to him. He played a range of music from Chopin to Gershwin.  I left on her bed watching TCM about 4:40 PM.

November 24, 2012, Saturday. I went to the NH about 11:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the dining room. I took her back to her room and gave her some spray body powder. We did some personal care and I put a bib on her. I put on SPLASH DVD. We went back to dining room. We talked about birds, Cardinals and Scissortails. I left about 12:05 PM.

November 25, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH about 3 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. SPLASH was playing on DVD and Mom was resting on her bed. We did some personal care. She requested that I clean her teeth. I brought her two baby bananas which she ate. I met Tina’s sister, who lives in Liberty Hill. We channel surfed then I changed DVD to CASTAWAY. Mom seemed content and clean. I left about 4 PM. Carl reports he went by and fed the birds, fixed the flowers, saw Mom about 6 PM.

November 26, 2012, Monday. I went to the NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds half open. Yvonne told me Mom was in the dining room II, games. I went to her room and changed the DVD. Mom did not have her teeth in. Yvonne said she wanted them out. We got her teeth. We did some personal care then went outside. We went around the building and back in the front door. When we returned to activity Mom said she was hungry so we went to her room and got a chocolate. The birds were at the feeder and very entertaining. Mom was not very responsive to cues and did not want coffee. Tina reported that they went to the Orchestra entertainment this morning. Mom seemed to recall that.  I accompanied her to the dining room for supper. I left about 5:00 PM.

November 27, 2012, Tuesday. I went to the NH about 11 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in bed under the covers watching DVD. C.N.A. Yoshonda and Tina reported to me that Mom put herself to bed after breakfast. She had O2 on so Yoshonda must have adjusted bed, et al.  I opened the blinds, channel surfed then returned to DVD and we did some personal care. We looked at photos. She said ”that’s you” correctly then asked me my name, looking embarrassed. She had difficulty remembering Helen, Cynthia and Russell’s names. Yoshonda assisted getting Mom into her wheelchair. She changed Mom standing up, which is less than ideal because Mom leaks in that process. I gave Mom and Tina chocolates then accompanied Mom to the dining room. I left about 12:10 PM.

November 28, 2012, Wednesday.  I went to the NH about 2:25 PM, blinds open. I fed the birds. Tree trimmed branches on the ground around the feeder. Mom was resting on her bed watching DVD. I called for help and changed Mom in her bed. Yvonne came and assisted getting Mom and noted that Mom was soaked again so we changed her again in standing position plus changed her dress. I brushed her hair, cleaned her glasses and then we went to the art program run by Pat. Pat says that she won’t be here next week. Mom watercolored and had coffee and pumpkin bread (from Pat). I accompanied back to her room then to the TV room. Yvonne got her table and I got her colors. I left her coloring in the TV room about 3:45 PM.

November 29, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 11AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I opened the blinds and Mom was awake on her bed. She had removed O2 from her nose. I put that back on.  Mom had a letter from Quembe. I opened and got her to read. She read the same sentence repeatedly. Then I took it and read it to her and we talked about Mustang, OK, and Granma Riley. Yoshonda came and assisted getting Mom up. We did some personal care. I accompanied Mom to dining room.  I left with dirty clothes to wash about 12:15 PM.

November 30, 2012, Friday. I went to the NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed and there was already feed in the feeder. Mom was resting in her bed, no pants. I opened the blinds and got her up. We did some personal care and leg lifts. I painted her nails. We went to the tree decorating activity. Mom donated one of her paper mache’ birds to the tree. We had cookies and juice. We met Ms. Bailey who had been a ballet dancer in her day. We returned to her room and hung up her clean clothes I had brought. We looked at Quembe’s letter again.  I accompanied her to the dining room for supper. I left about 5 PM.

December 1, 2012, Saturday.  Nurse Joyce telephoned about 10:15 this morning to say that Mom had fallen (#6) while trying to get into her bed from her wheelchair. She reported that there was no apparent injury.  I went to the NH about 3:20 PM. I fed the birds, blinds partially closed. Mom was resting on her bed with the O2 pulled off her nose. I got her up. Mom was able to stand briefly while transferring. We did some personal care and I gave her an oatmeal chocolate bar. Mom took it with her to the event. We listened and sang along with India, the performer. Tina Rolf told me that Mom had returned to her room independently after breakfast and attempted to get into her bed. Afterwards we went for a turn around outside and sat in front of the facility. Then we went back to her room. I left her coloring in her room in front of the TV, wheelchair brakes on.

December 2, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH about 2:35 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I took her some clean socks and a bib. Mom was resting on her bed. Her O2 was out of place and turned contrary so that I had to remove and adjust the nostril. She had a BM in her diaper. I called for help and Yvonne came and we got her cleaned up, changed and into her chair. We channel surfed and I changed the DVD. We did some personal care then went to the activity, UT Business women singing carols. Their performance was awful but the cookies were wonderful. Then the Korean Women’s Choir took the stage at 4:30. They were accompanied by a blind clarinetist, a violinist and pianist. They were exquisite, magnificent. I discussed wheelchairs with Bernice Moran. Her husband has a wheelchair that is designed to make falling more difficult. He had a number of falls but none since he got this new chair. At 5 PM I accompanied Mom back to her room for her bib then to the dining room for supper. I got her some coffee, then I departed about 5:20 PM.

December 3, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 3PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed, then went to the office. I paid the monthly payment from Mom’s trust account then asked about changing Mom’s wheelchair. Jay explained about brakes that prevent the wheelchair from going backwards. We also discussed changes in supply of pull up briefs. Then I went to Mom’s room. She was resting on her bed, O2 pulled off. She said the O2 made her feel “bubbly. I turned it off. I opened the blinds and changed the DVD. We channel surfed then Yvonne came and assisted getting Mom up. I gave Mom a chocolate. We did some personal care.  She said that she was hungry. We got a half peanut butter sandwich from the Nurses station then went to dining room. I got her a coffee. She finished both handily. Then we went to dining room II and looked at the Christmas tree. Mom loves that tree. Mom had difficulty understanding me when I spoke to her today but seemed alert and in good spirits. We returned to her room and I got her colors and coloring book. I left her about 4:30 PM. Nurse Steve told me that Hospice will see to fixing Mom’s wheelchair.

December 4, 2012, Tuesday. Foxy & I went to the NH about 10:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was resting on her bed. I put Foxy on her bed and gave Mom treats to feed Foxy. She did not remember him at first but warmed to him quickly. She petted him and fed him treats. I cleaned under her fingernails and turned up the DVD. Nurse Mary from Hospice came by and we visited. Foxy & I left about 11:30. Mom seemed quite content. I spoke to Annie, recreation, about encouraging Mom to attend afternoon programs. As Foxy & I were leaving we passed Dr Maxwell on Unit III and her standard poodles attacked Foxy.  Dr. Maxwell said the poodles are usually not off leash. We broke it up quickly. I think Foxy is okay. Carl reports that he visited about 4:30 PM. He found Mom in the TV room. Staff transported her to the music program after he arrived.

December 5, 2012, Wednesday. I went to the NH about 3:50 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I left the photograph of the Nurse Diana painting at the desk with Nurse Steve. We hung up the clean clothes that I brought. C.N.A. Felicia came and got Mom into her wheelchair. We did some personal care then went to the dining room II. Donna showed me the photograph of Mom that will be in the newsletter this month. Mom & I painted a picture of the tree with CretaColor. I got Mom a coffee. I saw Hospice Nurse Amy and we talked about the alarm for preventing wheelchair accidents. We returned to her room and I put a bib on her and accompanied her to the dining room. Tina said they worked on her wheelchair. I couldn’t see any difference. Nurse Steve also said that some gadget had been put on her chair but I couldn’t see it, detect it. I left about 5:10 PM.

December 6, 2012, Thursday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was sleeping soundly on her bed. I got dirty clothes to wash, put clean socks & sweaters in her room. I put up the new newsletter. I spoke to Yoshanda. I left about 10:25 AM.

December 7, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 10:20 AM. I couldn’t park near the bird feeder because the parking lot was full of children. I went in through the front. Mom was resting on her bed and did not want to get up. I got her up and we went to the program of the Brykerwoods 4^th grade Holiday performance. It Was Brilliant. Channukka  songs, Kwanza, Posado, Christmas Carols. We loved it. The children gave out handmade cards. It cheered Mom. We returned to Mom’s room. The Hospice C.N.A. Meg came by. She visited with Mom & I.  She checked supplies. I accompanied Mom to the dining room. Nurse Diane said that the safety brakes don’t work On Mom’s chair. She said that Hospice was supposed to come up with another wheelchair. I left about 11:50 AM.

December 8, 2012, Saturday. I went to NH about 2:50 PM. Riley’s truck was there and the birds were fed, blinds closed. Riley was visiting Mom but soon left. Yolanda and I got Mom up. We did some personal care and then went to dining room II to see the preschool dance classes perform. There were 3 to 5 years old children tap dancing and ballet moves. Afterward Mom & I returned to her room and I noticed a red spot on her lower right eye lid. Mom & I showed Nurse Diana and we returned to her room. I got her colors out plus coloring book. I left Mom in her room and left about 5 PM. I fed the birds as I left.   

December 9, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH about 2 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I gave Nurse Diane the name and number of Mom’s ophthalmologist. Mom was resting on her bed. I opened her blinds and got some supplies for coloring to take to dining room II for crafts with Deanna. C.N.A. Julianna assisted us getting Mom into her chair.  Mom and I colored a picture of the tree and we also threaded beads on a pipe cleaner to make a Christmas pin. We returned to her room. I took her walker home with me and left the watercolor pad in her craft drawer. I left about 3:50 PM.

December 10, 2012, Monday. I went to NH today about 3:20 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was resting on her bed in need of a change. I called for help then went and asked. The Med nurse gave Mom her dose of green stuff. I opened the blinds and the birds came eagerly. The brown pigeon is still in the flock. Mom and I hung up clean clothes. C.N.A. came, changed Mom and helped get Mom into her chair. We did some personal care plus I cleaned, filed and painted her nails. Then we went to dining room II and enjoyed the children singing carols. The children gave out cookies, also. We returned to her room and I changed the DVD. Then we went to her dining room for supper. The children serenaded in her dining room also. More cookies. I left about 5:10 PM.

December 11, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 10:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was sleeping soundly on her bed. I turned up the sound on her DVD, opened the blinds and cleaned her glasses. I got her dirty clothes and trimmed her flowers. I left the NH about 11 AM.

December 12, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I spoke to Nurse Diane about eye doctor for Mom. She said 9:45 AM, Friday 12/14/12. Mom was resting on her bed, awake, TV off. I opened blinds and the birds came. New flowers in vase indicates Carl has visited. I put on TV and we channel surfed some then I changed the DVD. Nurse came in to take vitals and Med nurse gave Meds.

We did some personal care and Mom said she did not want to get up then changed her mind. I asked C.N.A. Annabel to get Mom up. She changed Mom and got her up into her wheelchair. Mom & I went to dining room II and sat with Mary Francis (resident). I got coffee for Mom and ice tea for Mary Francis. We worked a puzzle. We went to the tree and looked at it. Then I accompanied Mom to her room. We saw Tina and I told her about the brown pigeon being an Australian breed. We went around the facility and looked at other decorated trees. I accompanied Mom to dining room for supper. I left about 5:10 PM.

December 13, 2012, Thursday. I went to the NH about 10:30 AM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was asleep. I changed the DVD to Singing in the rain. I left about 10:50 AM. I returned to the NH about 4:20 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom’s volunteer, Katelin, was there. I opened the blinds and the birds came. We called the C.N.A. to get Mom up. Julianna came and got Mom changed and we got her up into her wheelchair. I visited with Katelin a bit and she took Mom to the music program in dining room II. I left about 4:45 PM.

December 14, 2012, Friday. I went to the NH about 8:35 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the TV room, slumped in her chair, no glasses, miss matched clothes. I took her to her room to get her ready to go to ophthalmologist, Dr. Ross. Changed her sweater, got her glasses, put coat scarf, hat on her, rouge. Driver, Derrick, came and took Mom with paperwork to Doctor. I went in my own car and met them at Eye Institute. Dr. Ross said it is only a sty and wrote orders. I called Derrick. Mom & I took a turn around outside then waited inside. Derrick came and got paperwork. I returned to NH about 4 PM with Bill Alsup. Mom was at the Chanuka Celebration. We joined her and Mom recognized Bill. She didn’t know his name or who exactly he was but had that visceral memory, no problem. We played with a dredel and Mom won. We went to her room and I got her bib then we took her to the dining room for supper. I got her a coffee before I left.

December 15, 2012, Saturday. I went to the NH about 11:20 AM.  I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the hallway, no glasses. We returned to her room. The TV was on the DVD. I cleaned her glasses, opened the blinds and we did some personal care. I accompanied Mom to the dining room for Lunch then left about Noon. I returned to NH about 2:40 PM. The birdfeeder was still full. Mom was resting on her bed, no O2 on. I cleaned her glasses and got her into her wheelchair. We went to the Great Room for a party sponsored by the Kiwanis. I got Mom and Pat (resident) a glass of lemonade. There was Christmas music being played on an organ and piano. I saw stacks of gifts and cookies. I left about 3:10 PM.

December 16, 2012, Sunday. I went to NH about 3:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was on her bed. I opened the blinds and we saw a red-tail hawk sitting on the bird bath. We did some personal care. Some young girls from Salvation Army brought Mom some gifts. There was a bag from the Kiwanis sitting on her bedside table containing pencils, pencil sharpener, hand cream and various things. Some carolers came by, children and adults. I got Mom up then went to the Great Room where Methodist service was starting. We returned to her room. Mom was anxious and wanted to go home with me and asking “Why not?” I told her that I couldn’t care for her. I left her coloring in front of TV about 4:30 PM. I couldn’t find the remote control.

December 17, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 2:30 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was in the TV room without glasses. She was glad to see me. Annie from recreation told me that Mr. Moran had died, stroke. We watched the end of the program then returned to her room. I brought a coke and we split it, two straws. I brushed her hair, turned on her TV and found the remote control in the drawer for crayons and coloring books. We went to the Great room and listened to MacCallum High School cello class play Christmas carols. We returned to her room. Tina told me that Mr. Moran died of choking. I gave Mom and Tina a gum drop.  The birds came and we watched the birds for a little but they didn’t stay long. I got her dirty clothes and left Mom coloring in front of TV (DVD)about 4:30.

December 18, 2012, Tuesday. I went to NH about 3:20 PM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I brought Tina’s pants which I washed because they were in Mom’s dirty clothes. I also brought Mom some socks, a sweater and new DVDs from Brooks. She was resting on her bed. I called for help and Annabelle came and changed Mom and assisted her into her wheelchair. We did some personal care. Then I accompanied her to the art program. Pat was there with cookies and watercolors. Mom did a watercolor with some assistance. Riley came by, added some bird feed and visited with Mom briefly. We went outside and looked at the trees and the roses. We saw some birds, too. Mom was ready to get in the car and “go”. But then wanted to return inside. It was a very mild, warm day. We went to her room and watched some of the DVD then headed toward the dining room. We saw the cub scouts singing and watched them, then the scouts gave out homemade cards. Mom got 4. We went to the dining room and I got Mom a coffee. I left about 5 PM. Mom was in a much improved mood after the watercolor and the cub scouts.

December 19, 2012, Wednesday. I went to NH about 10 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. Mom was sleeping soundly on her bed, O2 on, TV off. I changed the DVD, turned on the TV, opened the blinds, pinned up some Xmas cards and left clean, washed shoes. Then I went to the front desk and paid $35.00 for 5 guests for Xmas dinner, 5:30 PM. I signed in & out and left about 10:20 AM. I returned to NH about 3:10 PM and fed the birds again. Mom was already in the Great Room, in preparation for the ice cream social at 3:30. Mom seemed anxious. I filed her nails which calmed her some. Carl, Charlotte, Riley, Terri, Kim and Stuart all came. We had a good time. Mom and I accompanied Carl and Charlotte to his van in the lovely warm weather. I accompanied Mom to her room then to the dining room for her supper.

December 20, 2012, Thursday.  I didn’t go to the NH.

December 21, 2012, Friday. I went to NH about 10:50 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. I gave Unit II box of cookies and card. Mom was resting on her bed, O2 on, TV on. She has a new O2 machine that also has water container. I got her into her wheelchair. Mary came and assisted Mom to go to the toilet. She had a BM. I cleaned her glasses, brushed her hair and we went to the Great Room for duets on trumpet. We returned to her room and I did her nails. We channel surfed some and I left TV on new DVD from Brooks. I accompanied Mom to dining room for lunch. I left about Noon.

December 22, 2012, Saturday. I went to the NH about 10:40 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. The door to Mom’s room was closed. Mary was helping Mom go to the bathroom. She got Mom into dry pants and changed. I found a package from Helen. We put on the DVD of Puccini’s MADAMA BUTTERFLY, disk II. The DVD player was open and a Fed Astaire DVD is missing. I got Mom some colors and she colored while I drew a picture of her. I changed the DVD to a looping DVD. I accompanied Mom to the dining room for lunch. I returned about 5 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was already in the dining room for supper. I visited with her, got her a glass of water and her bib from the room. I picked up her dirty clothes and brought home to wash.

December 23, 2012, Sunday. I went to the NH about 9 AM. I fed the birds, blinds closed. There were white feathers in the parking lot. Mom was resting on her bed O2 on, DVD on, sound down. I raised her bed and together we hung up her clean clothes. Tina recounted with delight the story of the hawk killing the pigeon in the parking lot. I turned up the sound on the TV and we channel surfed some. Then I put it back on the DVD. I cleaned her nails, and did some personal care. Mom asked to “go home”. I met a new C.N.A., Barbara. I left about 9:50 AM.

December 24, 2012, Monday. I went to NH about 3:10 PM. I fed the birds, blinds open. Mom was not in her room but was already in dining room II for Xmas eve show. I gave Tina her Xmas gift, a shawl and a card. I gave Mom two Russian teacakes. There was flute and piano and Xmas carol singing. Then a sermon and prayer followed by cookies and egg nog. Mom and I drew and played tic tac toe, sort of. Mom asked to go home several times then elucidated by telling me that her Mother would let her in. We returned to her room and I changed the DVD. Mom had received a package of socks from Helen plus cards from Staff. Then I accompanied her to dining room for supper. I got her a coffee.  I left at 5:10 PM. I added more birdseed when I left. I took socks home to mark them.  Mom is more alert lately but still confused as to time and place.