Mom constantly asks about getting a job. She lives in AL facility. Her short term memory is pretty much gone. I tell her that I'll see what I can do, or that I'll look into finding something for her. She asked me today if I had any friends with small children that she could babysit. She did babysit children years ago. I'm thinking about a special doll that is recommended for Alzheimer's patients. I've seen them on Amazon. Have any of you purchased one of these dolls for your LO? How do I present it to my mom if I do get one for her? Many thanks.
We would go to the thrift store and get new outfits and make a fuss over the baby. It worked for us.
However, your mom may find it insulting that you give her a baby doll. You say she is delusional most of the time and not in memory care, has she been assessed lately to ensure that she is getting the proper level of care? I worry about delusions causing fear and that their is someone close to reassure her if that happens. Anyway, you really just have to try and try until you find the solution for her.
Maybe a stuffed animal that needs care for a while? If the baby doesn't fly.
Best of luck, it is challenging.
If someone were to say to me “I thought this doll was SO DELIGHTFUL, and it reminded me of when you taught me how to take care of my toys (collected dolls....told Aunt Marion you loved her doll collection.... whatever you think might entice her interest) when I was a child. I couldn’t wait for you to see it. Let me leave ‘her’ with you for a day or two to decorate your room”, I’d be delighted.
Then leave it, and observe if/how she utilizes it. Don’t define the new addition to her room by your terms, but let Mom define it by her terms.
If Mom seems to be relating to the doll, ask her what her name is, or if she stays her room and so on.
May or may not work, but this is dementia. See if Mom will choose to engage!
What a lovely, thoughtful way to present it!! I LOVE this idea.
Thank you for your encouragement. I think giving the doll to her as a gift to decorate her room is a wonderful way to present it to her.
Thank you for replying and for encouraging me through this idea. I have talked to the AL director about a "job" for Mom and nothing yet. Mom's attention span is so short that I doubt she can stay focused on anything for more than a minute or less.
I hope it works!! Good luck