LS began acting differently. Because staff developed a rapport with her and knew her well, they recognized that something was different. LS was not able to communicate what was happening to her. She could not communicate that she needed help. She could not communicate that she could no longer see.

Before LS had eye surgery she was withdrawn, and didn’t initiate conversation as much as she once did. She was really struggling because her environment changed so rapidly, which caused behaviors.  She could no longer see.

The staff recognized that the behaviors she was displaying were not just behaviors. They knew something was wrong. Her medical needs were not overshadowed by her behaviors because of the care and compassion her staff showed her.

After surgery, it was a complete transformation into her old self. She was able to see well again by the time we got back to her home from her surgery. On the way home she noted that, “There’s no snow on the ground!” which she didn’t realize before surgery. She was able to call staff by their names, which she had not done for months. She was able to watch her favorite tv shows again and initiate conversation. Honestly, the best part though, was seeing her smile and laugh again.