How to entertain the Alzheimer's parent?
My mom is 90 and has Alzheimer's and lives with me. She was raised in a big family and loves socializing(still)! Sometimes she goes to the bathroom and talks to the imaginary friend (herself in the mirror out of lack of companion/friends)! Considering the covid and with all my regular daily works, how do you keep them entertained and occupied so they don't go to sleep constantly after each meal out of boredom? My mom wakes up every two hours and eats a snack or the main meal and walks in the yard for 1/2 hr., then goes back to sleep! I want her to draw, color or watch the shows she likes after her slow walk in the yard but she gets bored, unless I stay next to her and entertain her or take her out and not to leave her alone. I sit and have meals with her, sometimes play music and dance with her, but I have a separate life than caring only for one person. A family to take care of, meals to prepare, bills to pay, a dog and a house to care for and can't do that every time she wakes up! I just feel guilty that I can not be hanging out with her all the times...I know with my load of work one day I will be sorry! But can't help it now...Any ideas how to at least keep her entertained while I'm busy running my life?
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And if that's not an option in your area yet, perhaps hiring some outside help(with mom's money)to come in and keep her occupied, so you can get done what you need to. Best wishes.
Others who have already walked in your shoes will post helpful insights for you. May you gain peace in your heart.
She used to go to daycare but that stopped too since they couldn't watch her since she was wondering. So it's been a very rough year for me and the family. Have not gone to any vacations since 4 years ago she stayed w us. My brother never cared so I'm the only one! Sometimes I feel like a prisoner since no one to watch her to take a break for a day! How do you deal with depression and anxiety this care taking usually brings you?
A lot is accomplished during that sleep. It gives the brain time to process events that can not be done in a wakeful state.
Her body is slowing down, all functions so sleeping is a way to allow other bodily functions to work, like digesting.
Given that I would not be overly concerned about her napping. (keep track of how many hours she naps and note when it goes from 8 hours of sleep to 10 hours, to 12 hours....(my Husband was sleeping upwards of 20 to 22 hours a day towards the end)
Can you get a caregiver in? that will help out a bit. They can walk with mom, play cards, read, do puzzles any number of things. If you hire a caregiver they can also do some light housekeeping. That would help you out a bit as well. (Mom pays for the caregiver, not you)
There is a pamphlet that goes into the sleeping, I thought it helpful. It is called "Crossing the Creek" I am pretty sure you can read it on line.