Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Mom spent the afternoon with Elizabeth, one of her favorite caregivers. Mom and Elizabeth color together and Elizabeth loves our cats. We are lucky, Mom's other favorite caregiver, Terri, loves our kitties too. Tonight, however, Mom is fussy. I think she's sundowning. I hate sundowning. Mom has been in excruciating pain from her osteoarthritis in her hip. You can hear her joints and tendons snapping when she moves. It's sounds so painful. She's never been one to complain; that's how I know that it's hurting her so badly. The doctor has prescribed Tylenol. It doesn't seem to make a dent in her pain. Even Melissa the PT commented on how much pain Mom seems to be in. She is going to try to figure out if there is anything we can do for the pain. Mom's orthopedic surgeon said that unless Mom has a hip replacement she will be wheelchair bound. I don't think she'd be able to go through the surgery let alone the rehabilitation period. When she had her other hip replaced she worked very hard at her rehab, but it was not easy. I still remember how she was up and moving around the day after her surgery. It was one of the few times that I have seen her crying in pain. I can't imagine putting her through that now, when she is so confused. I wonder if being in an ALF would help her improve her mobility or would it make it worse?

3 comments:

~Betsy said...

I'm with Melissa on finding something or some way stronger than Tylenol. I know you have to be careful with meds with this disease, but if Mom is hurting this badly, it just doesn't seem fair. Hugs to your sweet Mom, Robyn. And some for you, too.

cornbread hell said...

it's so sad to hear of your mom's situation, but heartwarming to know you are there for her.
bless you for doing what you do, robyn.

Anonymous said...

I too hope that some pain relief is found for your Mom soon!

I hear your frustration in this post, Robyn. Just want you to know that I am keeping you in thought and prayer.

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