HOW MUCH?

I saw two patients today that have very similar lives. “Bud” is ninety-five and has been living in an Assisted Living Center for three years. Bud is blind and gets around, with help, in his wheelchair. Bud suffers from dementia, which limits his short-term memory. He has strong memories of being a pastor. His two daughters, who visit frequently and are devoted to their father, say that he worked until well into his eighties.

Bud shared today how much he missed preaching. One of his favorite sermons involved three castles. He could not elaborate any further. Bud was able to share that his strong Christian faith helps him through his days. Bud talks just a few words and then stops in the middle of his sentences. He gets short of breath so easily and has to pause often. He then will continue with the rest of the sentence.

I automatically spoke to Bud in a soothing voice as feel that even if one doesn’t understand the conversation, there is no mistaking a supportive tone or a gentle touch. I hope he felt supported by my presence.

After the visit, I drove to visit “Alice” who resides in a Skilled Nursing Facility. Alice ninety-four, also suffers from dementia. Quite often when I visit Alice, she is sitting in the lounge area in her wheelchair listening to music. She will rock and bob to the music enjoying herself immensely. Alice doesn’t talk at all, but communicates loudly with body language.

Alice is in a decline to where she is weaker and sleeping a lot more. I did a joint visit today with the hospice nurse. Alice was in a deep sleep. While the nurse was examining her, I massaged her head as Alice does not like to be touched. I was hoping to comfort her. Alice opened her eyes for a few minutes and then quietly fell back asleep.

Seeing these two patients today made me think about how much do they really know and understand. It might be a blessing not knowing at all. I cannot even imagine how it would be not to have any say or control in one’s life.

They may not understand our words, but I hope Bud and Alice both felt the care and love we hoped to give to them today.


HOW MUCH?
　

The two have a lot in common;
living well over ninety years.
Both residing in a care home
needing help with all their needs.

Confusion is a daily companion.
Conversation; a thing of the past.
He can still relay a few thoughts,
while she doesn’t say much at all.

How much do they understand?
How much do they really know?
One sees some sadness in their eyes,
but are we reading them totally wrong?

He had been a minister,
preaching sermons to the masses.
She worked in the school lunch room,
serving meals to a hungry crowd.

It’s up to us to share their stories
so their legacy can live on.
She nourished student’s physical bodies,
while he fed a multitude of souls.

Do they know they made a difference here?
Do they know they aren’t alone?
Do they feel our love, our tender touch?
I hope and pray somehow they do.