Today when I arrived for my daily visit Kay was being dressed by two Caregivers after given a shower. When she saw me she had an expression of terror on her face. She rushed to me and clung to me until I could calm her down. There is something about a shower that freaks her out. A previous shower was the same. The day I saw her in the process of getting one when I noticed her loss of weight. There is something about a shower that is extremely distressing. The spray, their attempt to soap her. Something there she can not tolerate. I asked a Caregiver if she ever submits willingly. The Caregiver said no. I am sure that is why they require two caregivers to give a shower. She always took a bath at home.
We went and lay on her bed after she finished getting dressed. After a while I got a sweater, heavy overcoat, my ugly knit hat and garden like gloves on her and went outside and sat in the sun and occasional breeze. Her hair was probably still a little wet.
More time in her room and when I told her I had to go home she indicated it was ok. I cant remember what it was she did. But she even waved to me before I got my coat on so she was comfortable with my leaving. Being with someone who does not require anything is very calming I think.
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