"I've Never Had This Before"

Yesterday Betty had another episode of acid reflux pain.  Bob had called earlier in the late afternoon and she mentioned that she would like to think of solutions for her living arrangements.  Of course when trying to list some solutions she said that she didn't like those options and wants to remain where she is, as is.

Then, she called about two hours later and was crying and describing pain below her breasts.  I recognized this as a recurring pain that she gets when she has not eaten regularly or she is upset, in this case... both! Bob told her that she has had this   We told her not to lay down as that would make the symptoms worse.  Bob tried to ask when she had eaten but she was hearing none of it.  So, I said Betty.. I am coming over.

Bob decided to come too and off we went.  I did call her when we were actually in the car and said "we are on the way."  She seemed glad and far less anxious when she answered.  The voice changes almost immediately from whiny to normal.

When we arrived Betty was in her chair and feeling almost 100%.  She insisted that she has never had anything like that before and even with reminding that she was hospitalized over night for these same symptoms, she found it difficult to accept.  I did get her to undo her tight pants. "These are not tight!" I did give her a Tum's.  "Do I chew it?"

After a few minutes I suggested some oatmeal for dinner.  It was after 8 p.m. by the way.  I got up, made the oatmeal and she downed it pretty fast for someone who was suffering in terrible pain 30 minutes before.  We stayed for quite some time until we were sure she was ok and then headed home.  

She does not remember that she has a knee replacement.  Does not remember the stomach issues that caused her to have to take Nexium.  Clearly, people with dementia need health records at hand.  I am not sure I know all I need to know.  More to work on this coming week.