This blog was formerly dedicated in 2009 to my Dad who died of Alzheimer's in 2013. It's been three years now...and I find myself missing blogging...so I am re-inventing my blog... because, after all, life is about moving through, and going forward...

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

One day at a time...

I called the nursing home and spoke with the charge nurse.  We discussed Dad's poor leg circulation and his poor blood flow.  They had to verify the reason when his feet were so purple and his wound on his left foot was not healing.  We discussed Dad's vascular surgeon telling us this back last May.  She said they get him up every couple of hours to socialize in his wheel chair, or if he wishes to stay in bed, they change his position so he won't get bed sores.  They put some padded booties on his feet and ankles with a pillow under the back of his legs, to keep his legs elevated.

I told her I was concerned with him being in bed so much, he might get pneumonia again, like he did when he first went into the nursing home.  At the time, we did not know if elderly people lay around a lot, they can easily contract pneumonia.  She reassured me they monitor him and check for all symptoms.

His heart condition contributes to his poor circulation.  We have to take one day at a time with Dad and be grateful for the time we have with him.  At this point in his life and health, each day is a gift...

6 comments:

Mari said...

With his circulation issues, it's a fine line of balancing that and the lung problems that can come from being in bed a lot. The lung issues can be helped by moving him frequently, when he is in bed.
You're right about enjoying him every day you can!

Marylinn Kelly said...

What a wonderful photo of your dad, mom and you. Some days, many days, the best we can do is count our blessings. I don't mean this as trite or simplistic, just that I find, no matter what, there is something for which to be thankful. Among them, you have your blog and way to reach out and let others reach back to you.

Anonymous said...

It seems so unfair that after living an entire life, working as hard as we do and giving so much of our time to the "work" of life..that in the final years it can all come down to these struggles. It should rest and enjoyment. My thoughts are with you and your father today, may he have more good days than bad.

Donna B. said...

Thanks Mari, I may have some other questions for you regarding his medical conditions, after his care conference meeting. Thank you!

Marylinn..I got that pic out of my babybook and scanned it. I am grateful for this blog. Later, I know it will be a great gift for all my family and friends.

Karen..I totally agree with you. My Dad took care of himself too. He ran a 27 mile marathon when he was 62. When his dementia started, his paranoia affected him taking his medication and trusting his doctors. AT least I have had him for 62 years...

gayle said...

Thinking of you and your dad!!! Wish I had a blog when my dad was living!

Donna B. said...

Hi Gayle, I am Blessed to have this blog. I am so glad I had the opportunity when Dad started this journey...