Things I have learned

During my dad's time with us, I have learned many things. I've learned about Alzheimer's Disease, his medical history, insurance, bank accounts, medications, setting up new doctors, his care...and on and on. Here are a few of the most helpful things I have learned:

1. Dealing with insurance companies is fun!

2. The words, "I have power of attorney" can open many doors.

3. The words, "I have power of attorney" mean nothing.

4. My dad will eat anything I put in front of him.

5. He doesn't miss his 2-3 glasses of wine before dinner.

6. I can change bed sheets in less than 90 seconds.

7. Routines can be very helpful.

8. Fingernails sure grow quickly, and get real dirty.

9. There are plastic envelope type mattress covers at Walmart.

10. Typically, choices mean nothing to my dad.

11. "No" means no. "I don't care" means yes.

12. Even though I do not like spending my dad's money on his care, I know that if he suddenly woke up (A thought I often have in my mind), he would completely understand. This was told to my by my husband, and it has helped me.

13. Lysol still smells like the out houses at girl scout camp.

14. I can quickly go into my dad's bedroom while he is in the bathroom and scoop up yesterday's clothes, toss them in the laundry basket, change his bed linens, pick up "whatever" is on the floor, and get out of there before he gets back...even at 3 am.

15. Getting my dad to let me give him a haircut and shave is most successful when spaced out more than a week...other wise he doesn't think he needs a shave. But waiting that long makes it more difficult, and "ouch" for him.

16. I'm getting real good at trimming up my dad's mustache and goatee.

17. It's ok for me to let my dad watch tv, or sit outside without being right there. I do have stuff to do!

18. Trips to the doctor require time planning, meal planning, a "just in case" bag, medicine packing, medical history notebook packing, car seat protection, and patience.

19. I can handle more than I thought I could when it comes to accidents...you know the kind.

20. It is ok to lie. I like to think of it has creatively saving my dad and myself from confusion, frustration, and uncomfortableness. Last week we went to a meeting for graduating seniors, aka, a choir concert.

21. My dad is ok with having a caregiver come into the home while I am working...even if he doesn't remember her name or that she even comes.

22. Friends are invaluable! (As if I didn't know that - and you know who you are!) thanks!

23. Although it has been life changing, and routine changing, and challenging...my family has been wonderful. Thanks!

24. Everything in my house is replaceable...except for the people.

25. I feel very guilty for not getting my dad to church every Sunday. Truthfully, not since right before Christmas. But I've learned...it's ok.

I guess I could go on and on with this list. But I won't. I have learned that I need to use my time wisely and it is now time to do just that. It's hard to keep up with home/work stuff, but... now's my chance to make a dent.