Making things a little easier, more comfortable.

[Ron and Phyllis]

I haven’t posted for some time but felt I should share a couple of things I’ve done since my last post.  I’ve shared that I’m a caregiver, but now full time, for my wife who’s now in late stage Alzheimer’s.  Our 2022 Elite I makes it possible for travel still, otherwise it would just be impossible. Since she can’t help in anyway getting prepared and on trips, I’m always looking for ways to make it easier on us. Her mobility has also worsened and though having our toilet with us is a must, it has proved more difficult for her with this loss of mobility. I installed handles and new raised seats on our home toilets at the recommendation of an occupational therapist.  Today I installed LianJindun Toilet Safety Rails around the Ollie Toilet. I had us do a test sit down and I could not believe how much easier it was for her and me too. Never thought I could be so excited about toilet rails, but with this disease, you learn to appreciate those little victories.

After seeing more notes on the Forum about Lagun table use, I installed one so that she can remain in bed each morning and have her breakfast as mornings are generally difficult. It also provides great counter and prep space and we can both use it. 

I had new mattresses made last fall by Southern Mattress Co in Rocky Mount NC and they are just like the ones on our beds at home.  They split them so I can use them as a full bed or as we do now a single across the back for her an one on the side for me.  The Lagun allows us to just leave them in place an use as couches. In the photos, it shows it used with the full bed and the single bed across the back while by girl has her breakfast. Again, the mattresses are from this Forum.

I also built from scrap lumber a prototype “loading and storage cart”. Almost all gear I carry on trips that I load into my Subaru Ascent fits on the cart.  I wheel it out to load and when back home unload and push it back in.  I also purchased a great dolly/cart from DOD that I use for anything else, protecting the old back. This sure has speeded up loading and unloading and made it so much easier.

Sadly, I had to cancel our Rally reservations a few months ago as it has just become increasingly difficult for us to take part in the activities. I will miss it. I hope everyone there has a great time.

Regards,

Ron   

[jd1923]

God bless you Ron, and your beautiful wife Phyllis! (awesome last picture!)

My wife Chris, her Mom had Alzheimer’s for her last many years, so to a point we understand. Being the primary caregiver is very tough though and you’re doing it proudly!

Great work on your mods, btw!

The Oliver is a superb special care vehicle! We stayed in it for several days recently to be closer to the hospital when I had surgery.

Everything is within arm’s reach and having a good clean bathroom is important. I was more comfortable than being home.

We wish you some good times together in your baby Ollie!

Our friends had a big picnic last Saturday. Chris wasn’t feeling well that morning, so I joked “Should we bring the Oliver?”

Prayers for both of you, from our special Oliver Community! 🤗

Edited 2 hours ago by jd1923