Hello, You want to know how things are going with placement, Well YOU HAVE TO BE THERE, it has been one battle and then another since we placed my husband April 27th. It seems as though he has been there for years.
I have learned that you have to get very close to the CNAs on each shift, make them like you, etc. The thought of not going each day would scare me to death, he would not get proper care. I have been to the Regional Director of Nursing and the Administrator over things twice and this is just in the span of 3 months time, I cringe at the thought of him living years there but it is what it is.
We still have Hospice and I can't imagine going through this without them. I pray they stay with us till the very end.
My husband is very strong and well physically but I have not had a problem with them having to give him medication for resistance and I do think that is because I waited so long before placement. He does not know he is there and that has helped me to better cope. I know that I did the right thing although it is not an ideal situation, not the same as having him at home but I at least know he is safe and cared for in the event my health fails.
I do think as we age we also have to think of the plan we need to have in place if we become sick etc. Getting him into a good facility was really a blessing and for that I am thankful. Just remember, it does not matter how many stars a facility has in the State ratings but it does matter what type of staff they have and how much you are there. Being at the home and letting them know you are watching is really what is important.
I think of all of you often. I have wondered how Kadee is doing and am glad that you made the decision to bring your husband home and that it is working for you. My husband became to physically hard to care for. I used the hoyer lift for over a year and had to have help getting him up for well over 2 years so it had just taken its toll on my body. We will be 12 years this November.
I went through the Medicaid process and it all turned out exactly as I had told folks it would. With the new laws I don't know what we can expect.
jane, its good to hear from you. its a good thing your DH has basicallly adjusted to the new living place. i would have to agree that being there to advocate for our loved ones is crucial. many here say the same thing. nice to know you still have hospice and they are helping out as well. take care of yourself and let us know from time to time how you are fairing. best of luck. divvi
Jane, good to hear from you. You've been so much help to so many of us that we really miss you when you're not here. I'm also wondering about the new laws and spending cuts and how it's going to affect all of us. Try to keep us informed about the process and know we're all thinking about you.
Jane, great to hear from you. We just recently went through a whole staff change at Lynn's nursing home, talk about a nightmare!! I agree with you, I rarely miss a day visiting with Lynn. I need to see with my own eyes how he is doing, and how he being taken care of. Plus I of course love spending time with him. I also think our daily contact, hearing our voice, seeing us, feeling our touch, must bring them a great deal of comfort, whether they can express it or not, I believe they know we are there. You have done a wonderful job taking care of your DH all these years, now it is time to also take care of you. ((hugs))
Hi Jane--Happy to hear that you are pretty satisfied with the nursing home. Yes, dementia facilities have flaws and families need to stay on top of things. I am about to place my husband and feel good too that I was able to keep him home until he has progressed to the point where he really won't know where he is. As you said, I expect that will help me to cope. Good luck and please stay in touch.
Hi Jane, I have been thinking of you also. You were so helpful to me & others. I hated when it came time to place your husband, as I know you have taken such good care of him for so long. I am glad he has adjusted, also agree it does help to make friends with the CNA's. My husband has declined quite a bit since he came home, however, I do not regret bringing him home...for me it has been less stress. Thankfully, we have the Hoyer Lift to move him & I am so lucky to have Hospice on board. Thanks again for checking in, please stay in touch.
Jane, it is good to know you are still with us. I am sorry you are having or have had problems with the facility your DH is in and I hope things improve for both of you. Let us know how you both are doing from time to time. God Bless.