What’s this?

There is no telling what Papaw would put on if he didn't have Mamaw. She has to help him get dressed every day. She helps him because Papaw has macular degeneration, which has caused him to lose his eyesight. He can see enough to walk and drive his lawnmower, but the smaller details of vision are left to the touch.

asking for her help is actually sweet. He goes to his closet, feels for the type of shirt he “thinks” it is, and then brings it to Mamaw for approval. Today, he brought this shirt and said “What’s this? I don’t recognize it.” She explained it was a thick shirt/coat and that because the weather was changing to cooler temps, she hung it in his closet. I sat and watched her show him how to button/snap it together. It dawned on me at that very moment that Papaw has some dementia setting in. And then I thought, I wonder how many times Mamaw has told him how to button/snap it. Yet, she was kind, calm, and patient with her instructions. Papaw put the shirt on and seemed satisfied as he settled into his recliner. Mamaw joined me at the kitchen table. I asked her how many times she has told him how to button/snap that shirt. She replied “Probably as many times as we say I love you to each other at night!”

My cup is full after this visit! #grandparents #caregiver