The jingle about Jello Instant Pudding® is running through my head right now, but honestly this is a serious post about a serious question. The other night, Burt, in the midst of his confusion, was lamenting how “sick” he feels. My response was to tell him that whatever was bothering him, hurting him and upsettingContinue reading “It’s never too late”
Author Archives: TheRealTamara
Rapid
My sense is that Burt started his path in LBD at an advanced stage. From the get-go he went from a period of apathy to being fully confused in what felt like 60 seconds. Capgras was one major symptom; little people enhabited our home; he needed reassurance that he was home. Meds helped a lotContinue reading “Rapid”
Recognition
When we started our ride with Lewy, I was cheered± by one assurance. Unlike Alzheimer’s the person with this dementia will always know his/her spouse. It’s a tricky point. They didn’t tell me that he would tell me that his wife was dead; or that he hates her. They didn’t say that there would beContinue reading “Recognition”
Speaking of work
Burt was looking for a job. I know I mentioned that a few times. It’s hard to dissuade him, and this delusion that he needs to work is persistent. The other night, he was intent and preoccupied with some sort of project. He’s always managing and directing others at his job. Work kept him upContinue reading “Speaking of work”
Figuring it out
Okay, this is a bit weird. One of my fears is that by the time I get the hang of caring for Burt, it will be too late. It’s a huge learning curve, at least for me. So many things to consider and do. I want him comfortable, safe, and secure. I want to love himContinue reading “Figuring it out”
Daydreaming
Burt always was a daydreaming kind of guy. I’ve been saying he wasn’t an imaginative guy, but clearly, he always was. In those days it was clear to him that he’d been imagining he was managing the Mets. It was cute that he insisted they also hire me. He knew fantasy from reality. Now, heContinue reading “Daydreaming”
Caring. Day in/day out.
My role as caregiver is certainly not an easy job. I am not saying this out of self-congratulations or pity. I try not to allow it to limit or overwhelm me. In order to, you know, keep on keeping on, I have to stay strong and centered. Burt has often told me not to getContinue reading “Caring. Day in/day out.”
Foodie
Sometimes, something just predisposes us to enjoy a food. Cooking has been pretty much out of my vocabulary for quite a while. My favorite “meals” lately have involved some measure of yogurt, usually with nuts, fruit, and granola. (No hot food, so maybe that was what predisposed me.) I mix a breakfast cereal mush forContinue reading “Foodie”
Why I am up at 4
My circadian clock is resetting. I hit the sack at or before 8 or 9pm. It’s a full seven to eight hours by the time the clock ticks to 4am. Why so early to bed? you ask. Exactly. I lie down to help settle Burt, who after a nap from 6pm is suddenly on aContinue reading “Why I am up at 4”
Transition
It’s in my journal. “Burt has so much trouble with transitions.”* Then it hits me, Burt’s transitions drive me nuts. It takes so long for him to get up out of his chair. I timed it one day, and it took 45 minutes. That was with two of us assisting him. I just get soContinue reading “Transition”
