Today Mom and I had a meeting with some of the staff of Linden Grove. The social worker, head nurse, and head of Physical Therapy were in attendance. We discussed issues that mom brings up to me, and the therapy she is receiving. I learned a lot. Physical and Occupational Therapy are monitored by MediCare. There must be "progress in function" for therapy to continue, and that is not happening.

Over the past 9 months mom's brain and mental capacity have improved. She is more aware of all that is happening in her world. The biggest issue is that she doesn't like it. She wants her old life back.

The head of PT was very supportive and understanding, however her PT will end next week. Mom will continue to receive Restorative Therapy. This is therapy that she can also do on her own in her room (with the help of aides at times). She will be given exercises to try to restore function in her left leg and hand.  They will give her things to do in bed and when she's in her wheelchair. She will try to be in her wheelchair for longer periods of time instead of staying in bed. It is difficult because mom's brain wants her old life back, but her body is not cooperating.

I thought the meeting was very helpful. Mom was involved in all of the discussions, and it seemed that she understood. After the staff left the conference room she asked if I could arrange for private therapy for her. Those are the conversations that are the most difficult to have with her. I was under the impression that she understood the plan of action with Restorative Therapy, but I honestly don't know if she heard what was being said. A part of me thinks she didn't want to hear it.

We also discussed that the aides are very positive and reassure her that she will get out of Linden Grove and back to independent living. While this is great for her morale and hope in the moment, it isn't necessarily helpful.

I try to always stay positive. The good news is that in-person room visits are coming soon. Being away from family has not helped at all. Also, with the nice weather coming back people will be able to do window visits again outside her room. She loves to see people and wave. Even if she cries when she's waving, those are happy tears.

Tomorrow we have an appointment with an eye doctor. She hasn't gotten new glasses in over 18 years. I think it's time :)

I know that God has a plan. We will continue to pray, stay positive, plan for the worst and hope for the best. Thank you to everyone for your support!

XOXO

Kellie

#carolstrong

#family