My New Russian Friend

[mela_lyn]

So I made it to the retirement home, which thankfully is only 15 minutes from home and easy to find.  It was scarily easy to get up and into Pyotor's room.  All I had to do was sign a sheet then up I went!  So much for security, right?

When I found him he was sitting quietly in the dark, I think half asleep.  Apparently he's mostly blind, the poor

Comments

[sakibebe]

Hey there! It's a truly great thing you are doing! Just remember that even though you may be hot he may not be. As we get older sometime the temperature gauge in our bodies goes a little haywire. The elderly are sometimes chilly even in the summer. Just remember that when you take him out or when you are thinking he has to be warm. As him if the temp is ok, he should be able to tell you that. Books (on tape or read to him) are a great idea, music is good too. There's also tactile stuff, such as working with clay or other mediums, that is good for someone with a vision impairment. Ask him what he likes/liked to do. He'll tell you. Treats/snacks are good, but I caution you to check for allergies, diabetes, high blood pressure, diverticulitis, etc... any of these things would limit the type and amout of treats he could have. (low sugar, low sodium, no popcorn/nuts/seeds) Sometimes just sitting and talking is the best gift you can give a senior citizen in a nursing home. You're such a great person and an angel in disguise. Much love to you, sissy Missy!

[mela_lyn]

Wow! Never thought of all of that... I should have known to go to the expert!! Allright, I'll be careful and try to make sure I just dress lightly! Thanks, Bethie!

[sakibebe]

I am no expert... but I do have a little experience with people in facilities and with disablities. Just ask him if you don't know. Chances are if they are about his likes and dislikes, his preferences, or things like that he'll be able to tell you. Now medical stuff he might be sketchy on and he might not always remember your name, but he'll appreciate that you are there and spending some time, as little or as much as you can, with him. You are heaven sent to him, you want to spend time with him AND you speak, even if only rustily, his language. What a gift you are!

[mela_lyn]

Well out of everyone I know, you know the most! So you're MY expert. ;)