Fashion matters, even at 91
Jessie’s a remarkably stoical old lady who has had to tolerate some terrible blows in recent years, yet time after time she grits her teeth and picks herself up.
I brought her some new clothes yesterday. It took just ten minutes to run round the shops and choose the cardigans and blouses I guessed she’d like then take them to the care home where she’s staying. I thought she’d smile and be pleased but could never have imagined her pleasure in the prettiness of the patterns or her sheer delight in trying on new clothes.
It usually takes a lot of concentration for her to heave herself up to a standing position then slowly shuffle behind her “zimmer” to the communal areas, but yesterday she was up and out of her room in a shot, looking for people coming down the corridor, smiling and desperate to show off her favourite new outfit to the other old ladies and carers, then basking in their compliments.
Never believe that fashion doesn’t matter.
My Mom was in a nursing home for three years; she had Alzheimer’s. When we would visit her we would bring clothes for the other residents.
One lady, across the hall from my Mom, mentioned she loved Yogurt, but never got any. I started bringing her Yogurt! It was pure joy, for me, to see this wonderful ladies reaction to such a simple thing. I bet your heart is still warmed by your friend’s reaction to your gifts!
Such a sweet gesture and she’s lovely.
Brenda
Thanks, I’m looking forward to showing her all the comments!
What an inspirational story! It’s a day-brightener to see the wonderful expression on Jessie’s face, and the beautiful outfit that she is wearing.
I used to regularly visit an assisted living center before my father’s passing, but haven’t been back since. This post makes me realize that I’ve been missing some friends that I made there–and that I need to visit them. Thank you!
They’ll be thrilled to see you, I’m sure. It’s a privilege to spend time with old folk but we’re always so busy…
Good for you! (both) The word inspirational applies to both of you.
Very kind, Viking Queen. Hope you’ve got that boat on the high seas?
First trial yesterday was ok…. Hopefully I will sail on Tuesday morning. Enjoy your summer!
How touching! Jessie looks great!
She’ll be thrilled when I report back with all these comments!
This made me smile…..bless your heart for giving her joy!
It certainly made her smile too!
Love this! She’s adorable!
I’ll tell her she’s being admired in America!
Yes, It is very much true that fashion still matters. It does not matter what is your age? Whatever your age is you are in some kind of fashion whether intentionally or unintentionally.
But once a garment gets old it stops feeling like fashion.
You’re an inspiration!
No, Jessie is!
That was very nice of you.
Hi Nancy, seems very appropriate to thank you for this act of kindness. Love has such grace. X
No need for thanks, Scott. Sometimes reactions are just so overwhelming x
So moving & beautiful! Thanks for sharing a most precious act of selflessness 🙂
Buying new clothes is never a chore!