She is strong mentally but refuses to participate in most activities because she doesn't feel good about herself since she is no longer able to look as good as she once was. We have tried a kindle, large print puzzles, books, magazines, netflix subscription for better TV/movie options and are out of ideas. Looking for something she might do to pass the time as she complains that she is bored and lonely. Thoughts?
She needs to get used to her new normal and she can't do that alone.
Aging is so hard for some people, then throw in a life altering event and it is time for the professionals to help navigate the situation.
Then a family only open house gor a couple of hours?
We did this for my mom about 4 months after her stroke. She was confused, but really enjoyed seeing the great grand kids. She was all dolled up, but didnt have to leave home, which msde her anxious.
Then a family only open house gor a couple of hours?
We did this for my mom about 4 months after her stroke. She was confused, but really enjoyed seeing the great grand kids. She was all dolled up, but didnt have to leave home, which made her anxious.
Christmas aside, I'd suggest you keep an eye on her mental condition and if it doesn't begin gradually to improve, or if it seems to be getting worse, ask her doctors to investigate possible depression. It's a common fallout problem after stroke and no amount of company, activity or even love will cure it without professional help.
She may also be feeling unusually fatigued as well as low in spirits. My mother responded well to aromatherapy (big surprise, because she'd never been one for hands-on healing - I just walked in to her room at rehab and found her with the very nice volunteer therapist), might that be worth a try? Or a good hair treatment - there are visiting hairdressers, if she finds it hard to go out.
Guard yourself against disappointment if nothing seems to help though. She isn't doing it to be difficult, it really is damage from the stroke. Poor MIL, I'm sorry she's feeling so down.