Author Archives: Jenny Mummert

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About Jenny Mummert

This blog was originally titled "Drifting Toward Planet Elderly," and it shared a journey I had with my elderly parents as they both went through their later years battling the complexities of dementia. After both passed on, I changed the title to "Living on Planet Elderly." I am a retiree who is reluctantly adjusting to the reality that she is now elderly. In July of 2021, I relocated to Middleton WI after living in Columbia MO for over 40 years. I decided that I want to experience a new and vibrant location in a cooler climate with lakes...a bucket list item of mine. I have a first cousin who lives in Madison. We have nice childhood memories, and I thought it would be wonderful to spend some time together as elders. It was. AND THEN....in March 2023, I returned to Columbia. I had a wonderful time experiencing the Madison area of Wisconsin, spending time with my cousin, and making some wonderful friends. No regrets.

Parental Journal 59 from Planet Elderly – We Survived Mother’s Day at Olive Garden

Posted on May 9, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Mother’s Day – May 8, 2016  – early morning Alaska, Anyone? Been dealing with Mom’s continued confusion about money matters, but after each thorough explanation she settles down for a bit.  A day or two later, we have the same … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 58 from Planet Elderly – A Couple Calm Days and Common Sense Discussions

Posted on May 6, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Friday, May 6, 2016- 6 a.m. I’m not sure why, but the past couple days have been without a lot of drama, anger, or tears.  I woke up this morning thinking maybe it’s because I’ve been here nearly a month … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 57 from Planet Elderly – Grateful for New Friends and for AgingCare.com

Posted on May 5, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Dad still recognizes Mom and responds to her kisses. Wednesday, May 4, 2016 – early morning Very nice luncheon at Mom’s yesterday with guests, Judy, her mom and her aunt.  Although Mom nervously prepped, she enjoyed herself and loved the … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 56 from Planet Elderly – Round and Round With Ups and Downs

Posted on May 2, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Friday, April 28, 2016  afternoon I was tired this morning after not sleeping much.  At 9:45 I told Mom to go visit Dad without me because I wasn’t feeling well and was tired.  She then suggested that I probably need … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 55 from Planet Elderly – One Royally Pissed Off Elderly Car Passenger

Posted on April 29, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Friday, April 29, 2016 – 1:30 a.m. Yesterday was a long day and I ended up going to sleep around 7:30, exhausted. Now I’m up, rested and enjoying some coffee.  Will nap later.  But the mission was accomplished.  Mom had … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 54 from Planet Elderly – On the Eve of Neuropsych Testing

Posted on April 28, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Wednesday, April 27, 2016 – evening I thought I was following up on what Mom wanted to do when I asked Judy when it would be convenient for her, her mom and her aunt to come over for lunch.  Mom … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 53 from Planet Elderly – Mini Tizzy Fit and Cuddle with Wanda

Posted on April 27, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Tuesday, April 26, 2016 – late evening I’m on an odd schedule.  Lately I’ve been waking up at 3:30 or 4:00 a.m.  I think I do that because it’s the only time I can be by myself, other than sleeping.  … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 52 from Planet Elderly – A Full Moon Episode

Posted on April 22, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Thursday, April 21, 2016 – evening How to Make the Appointment Mom Doesn’t Want Woke up early this morning wondering how I would call the Thomson Memory Center to make Mom’s appointment.  There is no privacy here…and she does not … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 51 from Planet Elderly – Lasagna, Advice, Options, and Stubborn Mom

Posted on April 21, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Tuesday, April 19, 2016  – evening We didn’t see Dad today until the afternoon.   In the morning we took Mom’s car in to have her mechanic assess why the engine light is on.  Some part for emissions is needed.  The … Continue reading →

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Parental Journal 50 from Planet Elderly – “Mom, You Need to Leave the Area Now and Calm Down.”

Posted on April 19, 2016 by Jenny Mummert

Monday, April 18, 2016   evening The first week of each visit is typically the “honeymoon” time.  Mom and I both try to be extra nice and polite; however, bits of reality start to grate on each of us and we … Continue reading →

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