Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

MissMillie

(39,009 posts)
Tue Jun 27, 2023, 08:53 AM Jun 2023

My dad is 92 today

We had a big Father's Day/birthday party for him on the 17th.

He never remembers anything anymore. He forgets not only the names of his kids, but forgets that we're his kids.

Physically, he's healthier than all of us put together.

I go over and cook his dinner 4 nights a week. It's great that I get this time w/ him. (When Mom passed, she was in a nursing home, and it was 2020 Covid restrictions that kept us apart.)

Every once in a while I get a story from him that I've never heard. Yesterday he told me that at some zoo/animal park he got a chance to ride an elephant. He couldn't remember where this was, but I think I remember being taken to an animal park in NH when I was young. Don't remember the elephant though.

15 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies

FalloutShelter

(12,838 posts)
3. Happy Birthday to your dad.
Tue Jun 27, 2023, 09:02 AM
Jun 2023

Miss mine every day. I was a long term care giver for both my parents and , while it was difficult, there were lots of golden moments that I would never trade for convenience sake.

Be well.

MLAA

(18,669 posts)
4. My dad's favorite reply when asked how he was at 92 was 'I'm in pretty good shape for the shape
Tue Jun 27, 2023, 09:09 AM
Jun 2023

I’m in’ Happy Birthday to your dad.

NJCher

(38,218 posts)
12. go listen to music with your dad
Tue Jun 27, 2023, 11:55 AM
Jun 2023

but first Google "music and dementia."
Read a few of the articles.
You'll get lots more stories.

usonian

(14,592 posts)
13. Was it Benson's Wild Animal Farm in Hudson NH?
Tue Jun 27, 2023, 12:03 PM
Jun 2023

Elephant? (This was from 1953)



Best wishes to your Dad!
And how good of you to cook for him!

MissMillie

(39,009 posts)
15. I think it was, yes
Tue Jun 27, 2023, 02:13 PM
Jun 2023

I don't remember the trip, but I do remember that we had a Benson's Animal Farm bumper sticker hanging in the garage for YEARS after that. (It may still be there!)

He really does need someone to cook for him. He's confused by the microwave these days.

SWBTATTReg

(24,332 posts)
14. Good Ol' Dad! You're so lucky to hear those stories too, while he's remembering them. Treasures
Tue Jun 27, 2023, 12:15 PM
Jun 2023

all, to retell to later generations. Wishing your father a happy birthday, and also, kudos to you for taking care of your dad so well!

Latest Discussions»Support Forums»Elder-caregivers»My dad is 92 today