My thoughts from the nursing home

I have the utmost respect for all those that are working at this time making things better for those of us that are home.

All the caregivers at the hospitals, those working at grocery stores, etc.

But, many are forgetting those that are in nursing homes and those that are caring for the residents.

My family and I have not been able to see our mother, in person, for over a month. We FaceTime with her often! We are grateful to her care givers for not only caring for her, but setting up the FaceTime with her.  They have been wonderful since her first day there.

There are several residents that have had the virus and that currently have the virus. A few have died from the virus. These people will be missed. They have become part of our extended family. 

These people- those in nursing homes and those caring for those in nursing homes- also need our love, admiration and support!

We have been sending food and other items each week to brighten their days.

This is what my mother said to me the other day. She is 88. She thinks she is 34 and living in her college dorm! This is heart wrenching:

"You can go out! You can be cautious and go grocery shopping or to the doctor. Put your mask on and go!

I can’t.

I am stuck in a room. An 80 square foot room. I have been in this room for over a month. I have a window but do not see much. From afar I see some cars go by. No one comes to see me anymore and I cannot leave this prison I am in!

Why is no one coming to see me?!

If lucky, every few days I get a phone call or I can see people on the phone. I think they are family members but I am not sure.

Everyone is wearing masks and gloves but I refuse. They are too hot and uncomfortable. I don’t understand why I have to wear them, so I don’t.

I am frustrated. I am sad. I am anxious. I am scared. I cry all the time. I just want my mother. Why does she not come to see me? Why does she not come to get me from this hell ? I just want to go home.

Today, they held me down and shoved this stick up my nose. I tried to kick them! I screamed and screamed but no one came to help me. I hate them all. I hate my family. I just want my mother. 

They told me they were testing me for the flu. For the flu?! So what if I get it. I am young. Nothing will happen to me. It’s just the flu.

Why are they keeping me in this room? I hate them. No one cares. No one comes to see me anymore.

I just want to go home.

I just want all this to be over. "

Please please please do not forget these people. Send cards to the residents. Have your children draw pictures, you draw pictures, just send them something so they can see they are thought about and loved.

The caregivers are also forgotten. They too put themselves on the front line. Send them some love too. 💓

Send nursing homes masks and gloves too!

The homemade masks the residents are more likely to wear since they are more comfortable on their faces.

The dementia in the residents is at an all time high. Since they are not able to leave their rooms, the dementia is magnified. They are confined to their rooms. This is similar to us being confined to our bedrooms! Some do not have tv's. Most do not have phones or radios. Many do not have proper reading glasses or lose them often so reading books or magazines is out.

They were used to socializing with other residents and staff. Now for over a month, they are isolated. Alone in their rooms, starring at the walls.

Put yourself in their place.

Now ask yourself- What Should I Do? What Would I Want If I Were in This Situation?

Personally, I would love mail, some drawings, flowers, soft comfortable masks and for my friends (family) that care for me, not to get sick.

Most of all, I too want this over so my family can come and give me a hug! I just really need a hug! 😭💔