For those who follow her progress, I can report that my mum seems to be well and thriving in her home in India. Although I had to explain who I was the first time we went to see her yesterday, she’s recognised me each time subsequently. I don’t think one could say that for Winky, though, but perhaps my cousin does not have such a distinct imprint on what’s left of my mum’s fragile memory.
This is how we communicate with my mum, who no longer wants to wear her hearing aids:
“Who did you say this was?”
We take a pad and write simple sentences in English. Nothing too long-winded or complex: no dependent clauses. She can then read them and respond. Whenever she repeats the question we can point to interactions from previous pages. Of course this communication method is only going to last as long as she can read English. I suppose the next step is sign language or simply being present with nice open, empathetic face or to sit and hold her hand, though she’s never been keen on any sort of physical contact.
Luckily I am finally managing to practise my singing. It’s and a half weeks, now, to my diploma exam and, not gonna lie, I’m fretting about it. I started practising as soon as we arrived her yesterday and, half way through Le Manoir de Rosemonde, I received a phone call from reception asking me very politely to please turn the volume of the TV or music down. I suppose that’s quite flattering in a way. Today I went to practise in the gym, which is otherwise only rarely used, I’d guess.
I’m unaccountably sleepy this evening so I’ll post this post and wish you goodnight.
So glad your mother is in good form. I do hope she will be able to keep communicating with you. It’s great that she doesn’t need too much prompting to recognise you. There must be some great acoustics there for your singing to carry so well 🙂 Goodnight and sleep well.
So pleased your Mum is doing so well, Gita x
Good that she has recognised you after the initial visit – what a pity she doesn’t like you touching her. I love just sitting holding hands with mum. But each to their own! Your mum is looking really well.
Thank you all for your lovely, caring comments from 5,000 miles away. x