Monthly Archives: May 2009

Tonight my husband took me to see Star Trek. I enjoyed the movie even more than I thought I would.

One big weakness of mine is movie popcorn – and always Diet Pepsi with lots of ice. Of course, one side effect of a big soda is a trip to the restrooms in the middle of the show. (showing my age?)

Tonight, when I stepped into the hallway, I was surprised to find a young girl. She was alone and obviously confused. “Can you tell me what that says?”, she asked, pointing to a movie title above one of the many doors in the hallway. When I read “Obsessed” to her, and asked her which one she was looking for…she was reassured and went on in.

I am still thinking of her. She was so young. Why would parents send a small child out to the restroom alone? She couldn’t read. All the signs looked alike to her. She was looking to strangers for help.

Those that know me would not have been surprised if I would have taken her in to her parents and told them a bit about protecting their children. I didn’t though. I just went back to Star Trek and my dear husband. I enjoyed the rest of my time with him. But tonight I say a little extra prayer for all the kids in this crazy world – especially one little girl that is probably very loved, but not watched over as closely as I think she should be.

My grandmother died of Alzheimer’s disease. We hear about the disease from time to time when someone famous suffers from it, or when a medical theory or break through hits the news. We also hear many jokes about it, because humans do funny things when they are forgetful.Any of us that have watched the disease happen to someone that we love have a different perspective. Small things make us think of the unfairness, the waste…and yes, we think ”could it happen to me?”. We look for ways to keep our minds sharp.

Today I ran across a tip in my daily Wisdom Tip emails that I think is worth sharing.
 
Memory booster
Scientists have discovered that bushing your teeth with your opposite hand or driving to work a different way or even chewing gum is a form of mental exercise that increases blood flowing through your brain which helps to create and strengthen both brain lobes and the link between lobes.

There is a difference between regular forgetfulness and Alzheimers, but it cannot hurt to exercise our brains and keep them as strong as possible.

I think tomorrow I will share a one of the lighter sides of Grandma’s behavior during her illness, but for now just a reminder to take care of yourself – and to be patient with those around you that may be having a confused day. God bless.