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A myALZteam Member asked a question 💭
Northeast Florida

My husband went into memory care three weeks ago and seems to be adjusting quite well. But, of course, he is always happy to see me and, when he does, he often asks about coming home and/or asks me how I got there to see him. In other words, do I have a car?

I’m pretty sure it’s too early to bring him home for a visit and maybe I should never do that, at least not until I sell our 2800 sq Ft house and get a small patio home, condo, or apartment for myself. Something that he definitely won’t… read more

December 4, 2021
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Answer Summary

Members shared deeply personal experiences about taking loved ones with dementia out of memory care facilities, with many describing the... Read more

Members shared deeply personal experiences about taking loved ones with dementia out of memory care facilities, with many describing the heartbreaking confusion that follows outings, including questions like 'why am I here?' and difficulty recognizing spouses or home. Several members offered practical wisdom gained through experience, including starting with short car rides rather than full outings, consulting facility staff for personalized guidance, and recognizing that while visits away may bring temporary joy to caregivers, consistency and familiar surroundings often serve the person with dementia better in the long run. A recurring theme was the guilt caregivers feel balanced against the understanding that memory care placement is an act of love, with many finding comfort in facility-based visits rather than taking residents out, and one member suggesting a sweet alternative of holding a vow renewal ceremony at the facility when a resident repeatedly asks to get married.

A myALZteam Member

I had to finally get to the point of realizing that going out for short day trips was not in Jana's best interest. It was confusing and somewhat scary for her. Consistency is important, once they are in LTC. Going home, even when it makes you feel better, is not necessarily something beneficial for the victim of this disease, I believe. I learned that she was better with me visiting her, and just staying where we were, worked best. You can tell by the questions being asked.

December 8, 2021 (edited)
A myALZteam Member

Ty fir your hugs and info. Been married for 60 years this is sooo hard. Ran out again yesterday & got call from neighbor he was in hall. Must have woken up right after I left. Daughter & son in law bringing tree today for us supposed to go to Xmas Bldg luncheon really not into it. This whole situation affects mental &’physical. Exhausting!! Love & prayers to all of us on this journey!! ❤️🙏🏻

December 5, 2021
A myALZteam Member

My husband didn't know me for several years either but he did want to marry me again!! That is one of the best memories especially for our daughters!! As far as going out. You could start with a ride so that you did not have to worry about getting him back in the car after going home or to a restaurant.

December 4, 2021
A myALZteam Member

What a lovely idea, Muggsy!

December 4, 2021
A myALZteam Member

@A myALZteam Member. Maybe you should talk to MC staff about having a wedding (renewal of vows). It might be fun to have a ceremony at MC and invite other residents. Everyone likes a party. Doesn’t have to be much, just cake and coffee in the afternoon, and the MC would probably provide it. When he asks you to marry him, say you’d love to and when the date is set. It could be something pleasant to look forward too for both of you and the staff as well.

December 4, 2021

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