My case seems to be different from most. Dad WANTS to move to assisted living. In his eyes, it isn't for the help, it's because he is so bored at home and doesn't get interaction with people very much. He and Mom live together; neither drives; she loves to watch movies and play on the computer -- which Dad basically abhors. He wants to take road trips, hear musical concerts, try his hand at different crafts.
I WANT him in assisted living now, in hopes that he gets some of the above… read more
We had a similar situation where it was our aunt that wanted to move to assisted living as she was in early stage of alz and didnt want to burden anyone to take care of her. My uncle refused to leave his home of 38 years. He would visit twice a day, played games with other residents and came to like the stress free and almost catered too lifestyle his wife was living so much he moved in the following month🤣
I wonder what the staff at his Assisted Living would have to say about their observations and impressions of him. Maybe they would have suggestions for areas in which he is having the most difficulty, or together you could decide on a plan for working with him on those areas he is struggling with. What were his expectations of Assisted Living and are those reasonable in time now that he is there? Hang in there. Remember to take care of your own needs too. 🤓
K8 is right - the staff at assisted living facilities are there to orient the residents. They’ll knock on his door to come to meals and encourage him to come to activities. If meds are required the aids will administer them. After awhile they will take note if they don’t come to meals on their own. I don’t think they offer road trips but often have outings to local malls and restaurants and have entertainment come to the facility. On Friday my hubbies place had a comedian who was very kind, including every single person there in his show in some small way. There is a calendar every month that you can hang in his room and circle things he may be interested in. Good luck.
Timing seems to be everything with this disease. If your dad wants to go into Assisted Living, it’s time. Although a new situation causes most all of us anxiety and stress, the supportive staff and the structure and routine of assisted living units go a long way in helping people to become comfortable in their new homes pretty quickly. Accommodation to assisted living goes most smoothly when the person makes the decision on their own, and being not just willing, but motivated, seems a very positive predictor of a successful adjustment. I envy you his willingness! Could he have a little talk with my sister? Hahaha.
I say go for it....he will never be better able than the present.