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So, Bob has a new trick


SandyCaregiver

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Bob started being more aware and trying to help do things about a month ago. Like helping pull up his pants. So around the beginning of this week, I noticed he sent down to about 12" from the ground and pulled up his side. I was like WOOO HOOooOoOOoOOo! Do you realize what you just did?!?! You reached all the way down and helped pull up! So, I've added a new exercise to his balance exercises, to help develope this new ability. I put a kleenex box on the groun, end up. Then while lightly holding his gate belt in front & back (not supporting, just there incase he starts to tip) - he bends down to pick it up. The 2nd time I did it, I moved it from right under his right hand dropping to a little more in front of him. Will develope that more central very slowly, as he will need to get stronger balance going with his hand to the middle or he could flip over... so baby steps. I tried a few with the box on it's side, but he couldn't reach it.... yet :)

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Sandy,

 

Speaking of balance, this might be helpful to know, or not at all but I hadn't a clue until I experienced it. I like to offer these stroke secrets up, but if they're ever unwanted just say so. Won't upset me at all.

 

When working on balance something absolutely odd is that by simply touching a stationary object my balance improves immensely. Almost completely, but I still can't descend stairs so I said "almost".

 

Another thing is patterns on the floor...tiles etc. At the mall or such if I'm walking on a solid pattern floor and approach a pattern floor I hesitate briefly and then can resume walking. Pattern wipe out my balance until my brain can adjust to them. Only takes seconds but it's a strong enough sensation to stop me momentarily in my tracks.

 

When I say "touch" something stationary, I literally mean it only takes a touch...even with only one finger. I don't understand it at all. I just know that, for me and my balance issues, it works. I hope it helps you and Bob in some way.

 

Jamie

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I know exactly what you mean Jamie. Anything can throw someone off, if their balance is at all questionable. The patterns can also throw off someone whose vision is not right. And the 'touch' works perfectly because when you are 'off', your brain identifies that object as stationary, and uses it as a tool to right itself.

 

It's perfect sense.

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You know I sit on the edge of my bed cross my weak leg over and put my left foot in my pant leg then the other one stand up and I got my pants on. In the bathroom I use the raised seat when all is finished I can pull up my pants get over to the sink and wash up/teeth/hair brush/ under arm deodorant unless I need more done but I bathe when my wife is home nights or mornings her hours change each week.

 

Bob is on his way to more independence with time that's great doings! I'm proud of him he's coming it just comes in stages!!

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Jamie nailed it. I notice that just a touch of almost anything will "right the ship". Carrying my canoe or a pack I have no problems because the extra weight makes me focus on the task at hand. Enough about me, Congrats to Bob!!

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Jamie is right. I am like that too. Maybe when we feel whatever we are touching, it gives confidence so helps the balance. When walking with someone who is not used to me, they want to help so give me their arm to hold on and they are always surprised that I hardly lean on them, barely hold on but its enough to give me confidence and keep my balance,. Good for you Bob, you are doing great. Good work to Sandie too.

 

mc

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