Let's Talk Dementia

Most all of us have a tendency to talk much too quickly.  Slowing that conversation speed down a notch or two will help our loved ones with dementia better understand what we are saying.  It's an easy fix!

In this journey of dementia, we often find ourselves "covering" for the mistakes of our loved ones.  These mistakes might be things they do incorrectly, or they could be things they say incorrectly.  Sometimes it is good to step in and help, but sometimes it is best to allow the situation to play out.  I also share with you an easy lunch idea.  YUM!  YUM!!  Write me with your easy lunch suggestion - [email protected]

In today's episode, I am sharing with you the eulogy I gave at Momma's Celebration of Life Service.  I hope you enjoy it!

 

Today's episode is in memory of my Momma, Vera Jean Holder.  The following is her obituary.

Rock Hill – Mrs. Vera Jean Carpenter Holder, 80, passed away Friday, May 31, 2019 surrounded by her family.

A Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Holder will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, June 8, 2019 at Greene Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 2133 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, SC, with Reverend Vernon Thornhill officiating.  The family will receive friends at 10:00 AM, prior to the service.  A private burial will follow.

Born in Crossnore, North Carolina, March 15, 1939, Vera was the daughter of William Jessie Carpenter and Bessie Murray Carpenter.  She was the widow of Frederick A. Holder, Sr.  Vera was a member of Senior Life Community Church.  While raising her children, Vera did telemarketing work for a hearing aid company in Charlotte.  She also was a skilled seamstress and made all the clothing her children wore, the “leisure suits” her husband wore, and once made a necktie as a Christmas gift for every male member of the church.  Vera later owned and operated a La-Z-Boy Showcase Shoppe in Fayetteville, North Carolina with her husband, Frederick.  She worked for Berry’s Furniture and Allison Love’s Fine Jewelry in Rock Hill.  Everywhere she worked, Vera excelled, and she was quite often the top sales person of the month.  Vera worked so she could spend her paycheck on her daughters.  Vera LOVED to shop, and she was very skilled at it!

Vera loved her Lord, her family, her work, and her life.  She raised daughters who loved her with an unending love, and she will be missed by many people.

Vera is survived by her three daughters, Verinda Ann Baxley (Ronnie) of York, SC; Carol Lynn Howell (Michael) of Rock Hill, SC; and Verona Day Jordan (Scott) of Fort Mill, SC; as well as five grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and her sisters, Geneva Taylor (Douglas) and Evelyn Root (Jim).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the non-profit started in her honor  – Senior Life Journeys (Let’s Talk Dementia), 2612 Celanese Road, Rock Hill, SC  29732 or on-line at www.letstalkdementia.org.

My husband is going to shoot me for using this picture.   I caught him at just the right time, as he was chewing, and snapped this picture.  "Sorry, sweetie.  It was just too good not to use!"  On today's episode we talk about when to feed our loved one's with dementia and when we should withhold food.  It is a tough decision.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected]

 

Rather than telling a funny joke or story on each episode, I will be posting funny cartoons.  Hope you enjoyed this one.  Today's episode is about caregiver stress.  "WHAT?  I'M NOT STRESSED!"  Oh yes, I am, and I bet you are, also.  Tell me what is stressing you - [email protected]

 

There are several behaviors that should make you stop and wonder "What is going on!"  Be aware of these behaviors, and plan a trip to the family doctor.  Let me know your thoughts - [email protected]

This cartoon is especially for my son-in-law who HATES spiders!  Today's episode gives you a few good tips on documents you need on your phone.  Having them at your fingertips is a good idea!  Got a question?  Write me at [email protected]

 

My sweet Momma is working her way to heaven.  She is "Birthing Her Soul".  I love that phrase.  Let's talk about the similarities between birthing of a baby and birthing of the soul.  Write me with your thoughts - [email protected]

On today's episode I shared with you my morning prayer.  I hope you will find it meaningful in your caregiving journey.  Blessings and smiles!