…. It was just the lipstick! But, I found out today, my mother who is 6 days post stroke and has significant deficits, which affect the right side of her face that putting on lipstick can be a fun activity!
Mom was searching for a mirror after seeing the tube of lipstick I had left for her along with her comb, beloved hair net and hair clips. When it looked as if she didn’t have one at bedside, I said I would put it on her – however, I said, “Now, don’t laugh” and of course she did! The lipstick went up the side of her face and then I started laughing! Eventually I got it on correctly and even though she has a one-sided smile it made her look healthy and almost like my mother of a week ago – but not quite.
The reality of what happens next is daunting and a most difficult decision – where does she go after rehab?
The good news for me is that even though this is not a journey I would wish on any family, we can have moments of absolute pleasure in the activities of daily living.
I guess if I have to assist with any other personal care tasks, the lesson is to make it fun. Not making fun of another but having fun.