Saturday afternoon observations

I got here around 11:30 this morning. (Note to self: avoid M59 -- a prime example of how lousy Michigan roads are.) She was sitting in her wheelchair looking glum and sad.

During the last few years Mom has gradually given up doing some things -- getting on a ladder to wash windows or walls, shoveling snow, etc. Gradually being the operative word.

The hip fracture was sudden. In an instant everything changed. Just a few weeks ago she was telling me how grateful she was that she could still take care of her personal hygiene and laundry. It's not the case any more. It's hard to see her so sad (and her hair looking so unkempt). Hopefully having her visitors later today will help cheer her up.

She also tried to get out of bed unassisted a few times last night, according to her roommate. We're lucky her roommate is there; she called for assistance and they were able to prevent a repeat of the other nights' situation. They put a couple large bolsters that will deter her from getting out of bed by herself.

As I type she's in occupational therapy, having completed a rigorous session of physical therapy. The OT asked me what she liked to do--did she like to do puzzles, or paint, or knit? None of the above. The first thing that came to mind was that she likes to clean. So they have her cleaning a counter in the practice kitchen area. It'll be hard, though, because they probably don't have what she likes to use to clean counters. But I think it'll be a good sign if she complains about it.

Dave, you really need to vacuum.