Visited mom in ALF today after two weeks post-transfer nursing/rehab. I listen and try to be empathic. I feel sad for her. She did not eat her dinner or lunch today. I am not certain what to do to make her feel better. I understand she is not happy; nobody wants to be in an ALF or nursing home. But after hip surgery and no progress; non ambulatory and wheelchair bound, I do not know what to do to make her happy. Any ideas??
The is so much new stuff to get used to, in addition to the major life changes to be dealt with. I saw a huge difference in my mom once she became one of the familiar faces.
I quickly realized that she didn't want to solve the problem but just kvetch about it. Also, I found that when she said she didn't eat much because it just didn't appeal to her, when I prodded her, she'd gradually tell me what she ate. Just a little cup of soup was accompanied by fruit, a little dish of yogurt.