Well tomorrow mum is moving permanently into a CH. Been down this morning to put fresh flowers in her room and sort a few finishing touches. The handyman has put her photos and tv onto the wall and everything look lovely. Felt reassured that one of the staff told me the kitchen is aware mum does not like peas or tuna - it proves they have read through all the information sheets I had completed for them.
I feel numb and anxious all at the same time if that makes sense. Don't think I will be sleeping much again tonight and I feel so tired. This is the hardest thing I have ever done.
Well took a deep breath and gathered my courage for first visit to mum after lunch on Saturday accompanied by my daughter. When we arrived mum was sitting in the lounge reading the newspaper. The two residents either side of her were sleeping. She greeted us quite normally, not over excited or anything. I suggested she move seats so she was actually sitting by someone who was awake and who seemed more 'with it'. The carer told me she had been laughing and joking all morning with another resident. She said mum had settled really well and was a joy to have because she is so jolly and friendly. We stayed for about an hour chatting with another resident and mum in a little group. Mum did not once ask about going home or how long she was staying - her only question was how was the dog as she misses him. Part of me wonders if she actually realises she will not be coming back to us? I came away relieved but slightly sad too - physically and in appearance mum does not seem to fit there but when you speak to her she can no longer hold a conversation and has no short term memory and very little long term either. The staff and home have been wonderful so far but it's hard to accept that this is it for mum. I suppose I need to come to terms with this new chapter in her dementia journey. I hope mum remains contented there - as for me I suppose I just need time.
Wishing all my fellow carers strength xx
HI
My heart goes out to you, I am so scared like you about putting My Mum in a home, but I know it will be the best thing and only thing that can happen. I gave up work to help Dad look after my My mum and we are both at breaking point and have changed our minds so many times, so apologies but I envy you , that you have turned the page and have been brave enough to take the step you are taking today. It seems to me there are two hard things to face - making the decision , and then carrying it out. You are over the first hurdle so stay strong today , I wish you all the best
Hi full moon glad to hear things are going well for you all. Don't think my mum will be long before a CH is needed. So its good to read positive things. Hope you are getting a good nights sleep. linxx
Ange and Dottie, it's great to hear from you both because I know you have already both been through this experience and are both just a little further along the road with CH experience. Your advice and wisdom is much appreciated.
Mario, I am glad your mum is 'staying another week' . It makes the visits so much easier. I hope she continues to do well and you are able to start enjoying life knowing she is safe and well cared for.
I paid mum a second visit today with my son. Home was mentioned today, I am not surprised as I felt it was a bit too easy. She told me she was not staying I just agreed and chatted about other things. On leaving I told her I needed to get back to work - her reply, 'why can't you work here'. That did make me smile! She seems to have lost her slippers but I am hoping they will turn up as they were labelled - I did mention it to the carers. I am starting to feel slightly more accepting but feel incredibly tired - think all those sleepless nights are catching up with me
Lin, I wish you luck look at plenty of places and ask lots of questions. I paid quite a few unannounced visits and took other family members too before deciding. It's such a huge decision.
Sleep is all I seem to want to do ATM!