One of the challenges of communicating and getting socially acquainted while living in Garden Villas is that most of the residents don’t hear much of what’s being said. Once something is said the interpretation is kind of a mixed bag and recall frequently fades into a silent vacuum. Conversation seems to be rare with one-liners being the norm. Compared to the rest of the residents I don’t think a hearing aide would be that much of a help for mom plus I don’t think she will ever sub come to using one. If forced it would probably just be added to the list of so many personal resources she has lost – especially in the last year. One more thing she can’t do very well, if at all, anymore. Usually she thinks her hearing is fine but there are times now when I can see she questions the quality.
During my last visit I would constantly say to myself “If I hear the word ‘What’ one more time I might explode”. In hindsight I realize I did overreact at times. Now I hear the word “What” as a regular response. I have managed to stay calm when I hear “What?” and slowly repeat whatever was just said LOUDER. Padding my efforts with patience. The Speech Therapy is addressing some of her hearing issues but I wonder what the lasting affect actually will be. My view is “It can’t hurt!” and the structured interaction is good for her.
Mom and Shirelle. aka Cinderella
The new girls from Benefits of Home continue to be on a good roll and I’m pleased that mom has been so accepting to this major change in her lifestyle. It’s still all so new and routines are being learned. They will not cover the territory Lucy and Anna spanned for mom but they are doing a good job. Most of the days are covered by Shirelle and I can see mom getting attached to her. In fact she calls her Cinderella.