I haven't posted for a while. Just dealing with life in general and looking after my lovely Dad. After six years of caring for him, four years since Vascular Dementia diagnosis, things became very difficult with him turning night to day. Phone calls all hours to tell me he was ready to go home, neighbours phoning to say he was outdoors going a walk. Door Exit Alarms fitted and the basic lack of sleep because I knew a call would come and the constant worry he would wander onto main road or into the woods or near the river.
My own little family (husband and two adult children) talked of every possible scenario for Dad's care and safety. Combined with toileting issues, and a very supportive local Social Work dept., it was agreed that his safety was paramount and an urgent placement was sought. Application for SWD funding to supplement his income was granted and before we knew it, we had to select a place. My daughter and I chose a lovely care home in a town 20 minutes from home.
The hardest decision of my life was made easier by the warmth and help we received from the Care Home to transition my Dad into their care. He no longer recognised his own home as his home and I explained to him why he was moving, he understood that he was no longer safe to live on his own. He told me not to cry, he would be fine, and I am pleased to say he has settled in his lovely room, overlooking a walled garden, without any upset whatsoever. It is 10 weeks now, he has never mentioned home, and when we take him out (2/3 times a week} he is always keen to return to his new home. The relief I feel is palpable. He is happy, loves the company and entertainment, and has a good rappore with the staff. Anything at all I suggest or query is acted on immediately. He is well nourished (as good as any restaurant) and has a routine that suits him.
I just wanted to let people know that what you dread as the worst decision ever, can be the best thing for your loved one, and yourself. I visit Dad at least every other day, with my family filling in the days I am not there. I now sleep soundly every night knowing my Dad is safe and being looked after.
My own little family (husband and two adult children) talked of every possible scenario for Dad's care and safety. Combined with toileting issues, and a very supportive local Social Work dept., it was agreed that his safety was paramount and an urgent placement was sought. Application for SWD funding to supplement his income was granted and before we knew it, we had to select a place. My daughter and I chose a lovely care home in a town 20 minutes from home.
The hardest decision of my life was made easier by the warmth and help we received from the Care Home to transition my Dad into their care. He no longer recognised his own home as his home and I explained to him why he was moving, he understood that he was no longer safe to live on his own. He told me not to cry, he would be fine, and I am pleased to say he has settled in his lovely room, overlooking a walled garden, without any upset whatsoever. It is 10 weeks now, he has never mentioned home, and when we take him out (2/3 times a week} he is always keen to return to his new home. The relief I feel is palpable. He is happy, loves the company and entertainment, and has a good rappore with the staff. Anything at all I suggest or query is acted on immediately. He is well nourished (as good as any restaurant) and has a routine that suits him.
I just wanted to let people know that what you dread as the worst decision ever, can be the best thing for your loved one, and yourself. I visit Dad at least every other day, with my family filling in the days I am not there. I now sleep soundly every night knowing my Dad is safe and being looked after.
