The most dangerous place.

The Alzheimer-riddled can be exploited. Easily. Because they are incapable of fighting back. Of defending themselves. They all need defenders and advocates. Sadly, many of ‘em don’t have anyone. They are abandoned. In nursing homes. And more or less neglected. Sure, the professional caregivers give them token attention.  But that’s all. Very minimal. They are warehoused. And medicated. With sedatives.  Because that makes them easier to manage.  My 85-year-old friend Ron has Alzheimer’s. And he’s spent much of the past year in nursing homes  I dropped in occasionally. To provide supplemental care-giving. My good vibes way. Always trying to stimulate Ron. Mentally. Physically. Emotionally. It takes time.  And an understanding of ways to enter Ron’s world.  Unfortunately, Ron has been denied the best of care. Even though his family was paying for it. Yes, Ron was being exploited.  I don’t like it one bit. Same goes for Ron’s family. His daughter and son-in-law have come to Ron’s rescue. Taken him back into their home. Where he had lived for five years. Before his stint in a nursing home. Now Ron is making a comeback, of sorts. Back at home. In my neighborhood. I’m taking Ron for daily walks. A mile or more.  He’s responsive. Alert. The family is dealing with the situation. One day at a time. We all know. Ron has to be protected from danger. And there’s no place more dangerous than a nursing home. –Jim Broede