As I was feeding Steve cookies at the ALF, a little lady--one of the newer residents--came over and said "he's hungry, I'm going to get him lunch". She looked so lovingly at Steve, I could see that perhaps he reminded her of one of her children (she looks a good 20 years older than him, but who knows). I replied, "He's a good boy isn't he?" and she agreed. Then I offered her a cookie, but she said she's trying to cut back. I said "We ladies have to watch our figures, don't we?" and she said we sure do! It was very cute--clearly, she's in the earlier part of the disease process at this point.
I have enjoyable moments with some of the more communicative ladies at the ALF too. One tiny lady, Mary, often chats me up about Jeff, and who I am in relation to him. (we do repeat the same conversations, but that's ok.)
marilynmd that is so sweet. its good to know they can interact with each other and comfort one another in whatever ways they can. your answer was the perfect response. :) i bet she takes care of him and watches out for him. so sad but its good they have someone - divvi
When my DH was in the ALF he had a sweet little girl friend. They held hands and smiled at one another alot. She spoke jibberish and he smiled and nodded like he understood. They were all smiles when I arrived every day. They were waiting for their goldfish crackers( hubby;s favorite). I often think of her. I would go to see her, but I feel like it will take me backwards. He's gone six months now. I hope I make it through the holidays. I'm feeling pretty blue.
marilyn, how sweet! When Rich was in his first psych hospital there were 2 women who looked after him. One whose name was Betty sat with him everyday at lunch and told me he didn't speak much to her but she just liked his company so she sat with him every day. They would also reassure him that I would be there for visiting hours when I was a little late. and I always made sure I visited with them since their families chose not to visit.