the bright side of having Alzheimer's

There is something to be said about the gift of my mom's disease - at least in our case. There are many that suffer with Alzheimer's who are angry or distressed, my mom is not one of them. She is happy as a clam and you can tell by the big smile on her face.

She is easily re-directable, is always up for a walk, and enjoys doing arts and crafts. She delights over simple things like visits, puppy's and candy bars. That being said, you take away her TV and all hell will break loose. When I moved her, I set the TV up first - listen I'm no dummy.

Life can be hard, we all have worries. My mom certainly had worries, especially when a few of her friends started dying off. She used to worry about her company, her employees, she used to worry about me, she used to worry if she had enough money to retire. She used to worry about her community, about the state of Canadian politics, and why the paper hadn't been delivered on time. 

Now, she worries about nothing. Zip-Zero-Zilch.

She is happy - how could she not be? 

All her needs are cared for 24/7. Her meals prepared. Patricia, would you like coffee after your dinner? You would like a little milk in your coffee wouldn't you? Patricia, do you want to paint, color or take a ride on the bus today? You want to dance? I'll play some music for you. Patricia would you like a bubble bath or a shower in the spa today? 

All the doctors come to her, as well as the podiatrist, obstetrician, hairdresser, dentist and she can have in-room massages.

Then I come to visit and get ordered around: Tricia, move your head - I can't see the TV. Did you bring me any candy? Where's my dresser? When are you going to take me for ice cream? 

Sometimes I wonder where I can sign up...