Moving Day

I am pleased to say that moving day went without a hitch. We left the house 15 minutes before his son and the mover arrived, in case Gabriel would feel concerned when seeing his things being taken out of the house. While we waited for them, Gabriel worked on his wordfinder puzzle. Then they arrived. Here he is when he saw his son, andhis bedroom furniture being unloaded from the truck.   We began bringing his things into his bedroom. He brought in his guitar and helped me make his bed.  And before we finished, he was fast asleep.  It was a long day for him, but it went quite well. The nurse woke him up for lunch at 2pm, and just before dessert I had finished the paperwork. As I walked upstairs to say goodbye, I heard him saying “How old are you.” That’s a question for everyone when he is feeling comfortable with people. A woman answered, 91. He said “Wow!” I walked up to him as he sat at the dinner table with the other residents, put my hand on his shoulder, and said “Ok, I’m leaving now,” and I gave him a kiss. He said “Ok, bye, take care.” And after his son hugged him goodbye, he turned back to look at the residents and the television. The report from the nursing home is that he is adapting very well. He has been participating in the occupational and physical therapy and daily exercises. He was thrilled when he was given candy as a prize for completing an occupational activity. He said “I love sweets!” I am relieved that he is settling in well. Sure, he would like to stay in his room and sleep more, and he certainly would like more candy. But reducing his sleep down from the 16 hours that he got at home, as well as his sugar intake will be very good for him and his symptoms. The nursing home gives me a report every day of his activities. He is still playing the guitar and doing his wordfinder puzzles, as well as participating in their activities. The nurses are caring, friendly and specialized in dementia. I have no doubt he is in good hands.  Their policy is to not have visitors for the first 21 days. So I will be back in touch again when I am able to go and see him. With love and gratitude to all those who are making this possible!