Law and Order

             Gramps loved to watch Law and Order. Much like we had routine meal plans, we had routines when it came to the television shows he enjoyed. Some of our happiest times were just hanging out watching Steven Seagal movies or Lawrence Welk. Gramps loved to dance in his day, so we used to watch Dancing with the Stars and he loved it. Sometimes I felt it hard to sit still and watch that much tv, so on commercial breaks I would dust, clean-up something, anything to stay productive and keep order. The point of all this is that I believe television and movies play a part in our relaxation and entertainment, but it can’t be everything and it’s important to schedule in interactions with loved ones, friends, and other people.

                One of the things I loved about our aide is that she would play cards with Gramps. Not all the time, but enough that it mixed things up and he enjoyed it. We had friends that would come by for coffee or to drop by fresh baked bread and even the fig cookies Gramps loved so much. Our neighbors were great and kept Gramps company some times, and were always around to help if he fell. Our house had a pretty good amout of activity throughout the day.

                It’s not our job to entertain our loved one, it is our responsibility to be the law of the house and keep order when it comes to their well-being and working with all the providers and aides. Someone told me it wasn’t my responsibility to worry about Gramps’ happiness. I am sure many caregivers feel if their loved one is safe, they have done what they need to do. I felt like that wasn’t enough because I loved my grandfather, and always was concerned with his mental health and well-being. I didn’t want him to be placed in front of a television and forgotten about for hours on end, just sitting there. It was hard, but I found ways to make sure there was always interaction and things going on. It takes effort, but I think Caregivers should strike that balance between tv-time and other activities, even if your loved one is like Gramps with limited mobility. Healthy mind, healthy body connection is important.