When we go to see Mom, as soon as she sees us, she says "Thank God!" She's doesn't say anything bad after that--just "Thank God." She doesn't beg to come home. Yesterday she did say "Let's get the hell out of here" followed by "I don't mean to stay, just get out for a little while." I think this weekend, I will take her out for a drive and dinner. She's been in the ALF for just over a week now and I think she is a little stir-crazy--verses just plain crazy! I hope she will willingly go back into the ALF at the end of our adventure. Everything up to this point has been positive so I am expecting great things.
This move was the best thing for all of us. I feel like a new woman. My co-caregiver brother actually smiles again. Maybe Mom doesn't realize it, but she's better taken care of. She did say that the food there was delicious and plenty of it.
Paul, all I can say is that you will know when the time has come. Just be prepared. Look around for facilities that you like, then narrow it down. By doing that, you will be ahead of the game when the time is right for you.
She's obviously going to enjoy the company a lot, and that will put your minds and hearts to rest. For many people in this situation, a care home IS better than being at home alone with just people popping in and out, who they don't remember so they think they are alone all day.
