more transition for me

[Laurel]

Pam,

I have always found the elderly to be among the most interesting and inspiring of people. Mind you they will tell you exactly what they think, but that is refreshing. I certainly realize this is not the situation you ever expected to find yourself and I feel for you, I truly do. All I can offer is that many of those ladies love hobbies and are very good at them, even if a bit mentally challenged so often the fingers will still nimbly thread the needle to embroider or flash those knitting needles. Life brings so many changes and seasons. I am proud of your courage and all that I know you will find to give to those around you in your new environment. You are a true gem among us. I am confident you will bless and be blessed. Bloom where you are planted....

[Pray]

Oh Pam I'm hoping and praying you regain your strength real soon. Gods blessings to you sweet woman. My Aunt went into assisted living just about a year ago for dementia. Two of the other ladies their I thought they worked their were always helping with baking classes and bingo day and most of the time spending time with the other residents after first six months I asked how long they worked there and they said we don't we live here. They said they wanted to live some where they could stay busy! You sure have been given so many great ideas here from your fellow sisters, that I can't wait to hear what your knew plans will be. You have always been a great inspiration to all of us. Look forward to your next Post. Peace Little Sis!

[ElaineM]

Know that we are here for you !!
There are stretching exercises you can do yourself from your wheelchair and exercises to improve curculation in the lower part of your body. If you have access to a transfer shower bench you can learn to wash your body parts-----perhaps one new body part every few days.
All those will improve your strength eventually. Maybe you can get some videos or DVDs of seated exercises to watch and follow along when you have time. Even something that does not seem like a big exercise can help rebuild strength. Don't let anyone tell you there is no hope !!!!!!!!!!!
I had a back injury which not only fractured my back, but caused nerve damage the beginning of July. I was in the hospital most of the summer and very weak after I came home. I rebuilt most of my strength myself a little at a time. Today I climbed over the wheelchair twice --once to let the visiting nurse in after she couldn't figure out how to unlock my door with the key I gave her before she went to her car to get something she forgot. !!!!!!!!!!!! I guess I am getting stronger.

[Laurel]

Pam,

Please let us know how things are going for you.

[Pam P]

Thanks for all the suggestions and encouragement. I’m trying to get adjusted here. I’ve been here for 2 weeks today. I finally got some furniture – I started out with a card table & folding chairs.

The meals are good; the people are friendly. I don’t qualify for any more physical therapy according to insurance. I do the seated exercises on my own. But I need to do something else to get my legs strength back to standing/walking. I’m still trying to figure out how to get help for that. There is an exercise group here weekdays. It’s really just stretching but I go to that too.

Some frustrating things about being in assisted living. Example: Nurse told me I couldn’t wear compression socks (which I bought at a drug store after the surgeon suggested it) since I didn’t have a doctor’s order on file for it! I promptly got an order faxed. Another nurse said I should have a schedule for when I need to use the bathroom (7, 11, 3. 7, 10, for instance) for their convenience I suppose. How ridiculous – I need to go when I need to go. I asked him if he peed on a schedule. Hard for me have anyone tell me what to do!

Emotionally I’m doing okay but I miss my home, family, pets etc. Thanks, Laurel for asking how I’m getting along.

[BonnieR]

Sounds like they could use some sensitivity training there! Who ever heard of peeing on schedule? I understand their position, but really....they are there for YOUR convience. Times are changing and often people are in care facilities for a short term and the old treatment approaches dont fit the new profile. Maybe your mission is to keep notes and suggestions from your perspective for them to consider. Later. No need to piss them off too much while you are there.
Have you considered keeping a journal? You could write your observations and concerns. As well as visitors and greetings you receive. Things you might clip from magazines, that sort of thing.
Keep the faith!

[Pray]

Hi Pam, Of coarse I know nothing. When I was on bed rest a long time ago. I used a rocking chair to rebuild my calf muscles and it sure helped a lot. I just happen to love to rock. I don't know if you have access one? Just a thought. You have been through so much already I wish I could help in some way. Gods blessings to you my little Sis, Nancy

[Mtngrl]

Pam,

I don't know what your financial situation is, but is there any way you or your family could pitch in for a consultation with a physical therapist? He or she could perhaps put you on an exercise plan that you can do in your room, perhaps with elastic bands or some kind of weight and pulley device. Then, finances permitting, maybe there could be follow-up every so often.

I can't imagine being told I have to have a bathroom schedule. That is outrageous. What did the nurse say when you asked him if he has to pee on schedule?

I like Nancy's rocking chair suggestion.

Hang in there.