She has trouble talking using the right words. I have tried everything to get her to read out load, do memory puzzles, etc. My mom thinks it is stupid to do these things and she refuses to even try. Everything that I bring up all I get in return is her rolling her eyes at me. She just will not give me the time of day to do what she is told to do even by her doctor. I am an experienced CNA and work full time at the local hospital. I am usually really great with things to keep my patients busy. But not with my mom. Anyone have any ideas? It is so frustrating when she will not try. She is very stubborn and especially with me. She will not do any of her exercises, she is falling more now. She is not even eating what I may cook for her to eat. She just sits and watches tv. Depressed and ignores whatever I ask her to try to do.
I am sorry to hear about your mom's stroke. I know you are doing everything you can to make her life better. My dad was also very negative after his stroke. He has always been stubborn and independent so the stroke was hard on him.
I wonder if the medications in some way could be contributing to your mom's depression. I would try talking to the doctor and see if they can be reviewed. I know finding the right balance can be extremely hard.
When my dad was so negative, I decided to just let him be. I wish I had more patience and tried to do better for him. Keep trying for your mom. I hope there is an answer that will improve her mood and quality of life.
Part of the protocol at the acute rehab my mom went to was to start patients on antidepressants, so I have the same question as CW. As she says, the loss of initiative sounds very much like vascular dementia.
But don't forget that everything you attempt is for your mother's benefit. If she really, really doesn't want to know then you are eventually going to have to accept it. I know it's hard.
While I’m sure your mom depends on you and loves you, sometimes a stranger or casual acquaintance might have better luck gaining her cooperation.
Does she like fresh flowers? Her feet or shoulders rubbed?
A hug? Her hair brushed?
Could you get her doctor to order her therapy?
Perhaps accepting that she is doing the best she can might free her and you up a bit to just enjoy one another’s company. It’s been a tough year for you both.
Catch her with a smile. Somehow the rolling eyes encourages me. There’s some personality going on. She sounds a bit focused on resisting you rather than helping herself. Maybe try being less of a nurse and more just her daughter.