If you read my post yesterday, you know my Thursday began with disorientation and confusion. I wish I could tell you my day improved. Sadly, I can’t do that.
About mid-afternoon, I boarded a Greensboro Transit Authority bus for a short ride to the post office and Aldi. This is a trip I have made several times since we moved to Greensboro. It is an easy trip. I get on and ride to the fourth stop.
After exiting the bus, I looked around, and nothing seemed familiar. I assumed I got off one stop too soon. No big deal, I will walk to the post office. After twenty minutes of walking, I realized I had gone astray. Consulting Google Maps, I learned I walked nearly one mile past the post office.
I sent Linda a text explaining my misfortune. After encouraging me to use the Google map and turn around, she sent a text that said,
Should I be scared?
Eventually, I made it home after walking nearly two miles unnecessarily, all because my Alzheimer’s brain decided to make an easy venture a challenging one.
Linda and I have agreed that in the future she will track my movements closely using a combination of the Life 360 app and Google Maps. I will use Google Maps even if I think I know where my destination is located.
I can’t stop thinking about Linda’s text - Should I be scared?
There will certainly be a point in my Alzheimer’s journey when she may be scared for my safety and well-being. I think (hope) that day is years down the road. At this time, we need to be cautious.
Today’s research report is about an emerging trend to convert abandoned shopping malls into senior housing. I share my vision of creating affordable senior communities from abandoned big box stores. There is no paywall. Please read the article and complete the poll at the end.
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