I had our first care conference today regarding my mom. I met w/ the Executive Director and the Director of Nursing.
We went through Mom’s care contract and talked about how they’re settling in, etc. They also wanted to know some about the family dynamics. I told them how hard it was to extract her from where she was living and to find the money to make it all happen. They were surprised and validated how hard it must have been. They talked about how she was getting care now and was safe. I almost started crying.
Then I spent time in their apartment, brought some things up from the house, and hung out. One of their friends was there and was polluting the day with her political views and comments. She was haranguing my step-dad about watching shows at a certain time and giving him all the information he needed. I felt sick. Then she wanted their address and phone number for the church directory, and I could just imagine them getting back on all these mailing lists we’re trying to get them off of.
Later I called her and asked her to use discretion w/ their information. They don’t have money to spend on charitable giving and they need peace and rest. They need to get off mailing lists, not get on more. Their jun mail needs to go down.
When I’d been in the care conference, they asked me what Ben’s hobbies were, and I wanted to say, “Being afraid.”
So it was a day of extreme highs and lows. I think my body is relaxing with things changing and improving. I’m glad we’re leaving on Thursday.
*****
One thing I had to be challenged on today had to do w/ this bossy woman. As I was leaving, I asked them to sign some papers and reminded mom of a Mother’s Day tea I’d signed her up for. Was I guilty of the same kind of bossiness that this woman exhibited?
It’s made me think and continue to try and change my own posture toward people.