Nevertheless Dementia, We Persist

Lynne is on new medications because she has been anxious and aggressive at times. The medications were planned if needed after we removed the ones she was taking. I have found her anxious on her floor. I believe some residents on the floor have advanced to more disruptive behaviors. I think Lynne is disturbed listening to those behaviors. I have a hard time knowing whether medications are the best way to reduce her anxiety compared to reducing the time she experiences the disruptive behaviors.  Friends and I have experienced her different moods.

Harriet, a friend, visited a week ago and sent me this message. “Lynn took one look at me and got upset, saying no, no, no. I told Lynne it was OK, and I didn’t have to stay. I offered music in her room, but she did not want it. I told her it was OK, and that I loved her. As I left, she whispered that she was sorry. I tried to reassure her that she was allowed not to be in the mood for visitors. When I came back the next afternoon, I got a very happy reception in a big hug, our usual happy Lynne.” Harriet’s most recent visit included a stop at Queen Bee followed by listening to a guitar player/singer at Aegis. “As usual Lynne knew more lyrics than I did. Lynne stayed to listen to the singer when I left.”

Last Friday night Lynne and I drove through the Christmas lights in University Village which she noticed. We listened to John Prine as she sang lyrics. We ended up at the Madrona Arms drinking a half-a-glass of Chablis and eating fish and chips. People were packed around every table but one, with energetic voices celebrating Friday night. People casually watched NBA basketball on four wide screen TVs mounted on the four walls. Waiters and waitresses hurried from tables to the bar and kitchen. Lynne smiled as she watched and listened. She turned her face to me and made one comment. “I like this.” She was ready for bed when I turned her over to the staff on her floor.

And as you can see, she enjoyed squeezing onto a couch between her sons and me. I take each visit as it is and am deeply thankful for all the visitors she receives