I know at some time I will need to place my AZ husband. Our Son has visited a few facilities near him,about 25 miles away. They were all Alzheimers units.The Nursing home I volunteer at has all residents together.The owner says she feels they do better interacting with all kinds. Their assisted living willkeep AZ residents only as long as they don't start eloping. It is only 2 miles away and would be so convenient and I was happy with my MIL's care while she was there.I'd like to know what others have done and how it worked out.I know I have to plan for the future.
I tend to agree with the owner: they do seem to interact better if there is a variety. The fact that you are pleased with your MIL's care is the selling point - better the devil you know. The shorter distance for you to travel is better, too.
My husband's nursing home has all residents together also. The seem to do well. Those who are "with it" help those who are not and for the most part everyone gets along pretty well.
The Day Care Center my wife attends has all types of people together. I have noticed one woman who seems to have attached herself to my wife. Whenever I go there this woman calls me by name, comments on the weather, and on what my wife has been doing. On a brief look I at first thought she was one of the staff. One day I noticed her husband come to pick her up. I then found out she has dementia. So, it's hard even for someone attuned to the problem to pick it up in the early stages. Even knowing her problem I don't really see anything.
i think its a lovely idea that regular or early dementia patients would take another under their wing and mentor. i surely would like that for my DH if it came to placement. having a friend and who is aware of situations could only be a plus. divvi
In my MIl's nh she was befriended by a lively lady who stuck close to her and fussed over her and they both seemed to enjoy this. The other lady would recognize us when we arrived, long after MIL did not. She'd say "Hey, you have company" and would be glad to see us.
If he is okay with the place now, it might be good to place him there close to you. This makes it easy for you to visit. As long has his behavior is okay and they can handle him, it will be fine. My husband is 20 miles away from me (30 minute drive). That adds an hour of driving onto an already long day (I work full time). When I was researching NH and things to think about, there was a comment about a place that is not quite as good but close to you may be a better choice depending on how much time you will be spending with him. The first place he was at was less than 10 minutes from home and it was a breeze for me to get there even on a busy day.
My concern would be on how comfortable and trained is the staff about the disease? Are activities planned around various difficulties and would your husband get the attention he needs from the staff? If many of the residents are in good shape mentally, that provides additional eyes and attention for your husband - that might actually work out to be a good thing.
Placement is never easy. Finding a place that is right for the two of you is not easy either but if you do find a good place that works, that is definitely where you want to be.