He requires 3 liters oxygen nightly. His son, my husband, insists on accommodating his demand to celebrate his 93rd birthday at our home. This involves FIL taking a 3+ hour flight. My husband works and won’t be home with him during the day. FIL has trouble walking - unsteady and has aspirated food before due to not wearing his teeth and bolting his food. I am concerned about the night time oxygen situation. No amount of reasoning or pleading will change their minds. FIL has always been a handful, has macular degeneration and won’t wear his hearing aids. This is happening - and is WAY out of my league - HELP!!!!
I have to say, I don't think much to your husband's being all gung-ho about the old man's birthday but not enough to take a day or two off work. Are you going to have *anybody* on hand to help you?
I am curious -- are there any other children? Does he live near one who has to do all the day-to-day supervision and keep a handle on the 24/7 hired caregiver? I keep thinking of how glad we will all be if Dorker's MIL gets on that flight to her daughter's in IL!
So FIL is flying in today. You will have him all day tomorrow until your H has the weekend off? Is there a party planned for the birthday? And then you will have next week to again do the daytime care for FIL.
He chokes when he eats, has to be reminded to keep his teeth in, and then all the trouble walking? He can't hear? Your house has multiple levels?
Oboy...is this going to mean close supervision of every bite he takes? Supporting him as he walks? Picking him up if he falls? Helping him with toileting (yuck)?
And this absolutely might be looked on as a trial living arrangement on his part. Maybe his money is running out for the 24/7 caregiver? I certainly hope NOT!
The tightness of the seats could cause a post flight blood clot, and who will help him if he chokes on his food or falls down.
I know I speak for all of us when I say we’re glad it went well...and that it’s over. Take care of yourself and keep in touch!