Hi Family: Jim Ballis was down yesterday with a cold, say a prayer for him to keep him strong and well. He is the fellow who puts a smile on mom's face. I went in to see mom on Sunday, early afternoon. While I was there, Paul and Laura Stager and their two children, Avery and Hank came to see mom. Avery had drawn a photo of tulips and other spring flowers and we hung that up on mom's board in her room.
Mom greatly enjoyed the visit with the kids, they were so active and full of smiles and silliness. Mom watched them and smiled at their conversation and presence. what a blessing it was for her! Just as Paul, Laura and family were leaving, friends of Mom and Jim's came by, Sandy and Dick friends from stow and terex came by. I am not sure that mom knew them, but friendly faces with good conversation are good for the soul regardless. Thank you all for coming out to keep mom in good company!
about 2 PM the aides were to put mom down to rest and I made sure her window shades were up for the bird show.
I was not able to get in today but Jim, and Nina were in to see mom early and Jim was back in the evening as well. Paul Stager came by again to read to Grandma about the browns and some from a book. Jim Ballis said mom enjoyed listening to Paul's voice.
Laura has suggested that now that mom is not eating, her oral hygiene is even more important that it was before when her diet was regular. The reason is, the mouth will gather bacteria and will gather a lot of it if not cleaned out. Then, when she does have a drink, or swallow, the bacteria is carried down her throat and if she is not swallowing corrently, the bacteria may go into her lungs and cause even more illness.
So, Laura has suggested that we purchase the finger toothbrushes and a mouth rinse that is hard on the germs but easy on the mouth tissue.
Laura also said that the lemon wipes are not good to use, very full of acid and we are better off to use the green spong wipes. She said if we swab the inside of mom's mouth and gums that this is stimulating to her and will help to keep her mouth clean.
Laura also said that it is the job of the nurse to make sure mom's oral hygiene is kept up and if not, we should insist and do it ourselves where we are there. Biotene makes a whole line of products that may be helpful for Mom. I got the mouth wash below and will do her teeth when I go in tomorrow and leave the tools behind for you all.
The weather has gotten better here, the sun came out today and it was 60ish and sunny. still a bit cool, but beautiful with all the spring trees in bloom.
Love to all
Sharon
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