Christine,

I understand very well that the persons with dementia in the long-term care facilities still want a life for themselves. The problem is they can no longer do this on their own esp. the ones with later stages. Some cannot read or write anymore and don't know how to participate or communicate with people. My father-in-law is the lucky one because the home can still make him do something meaningful such as helping out the tree box or judging apple pies in a contest... Or go to a concert or an outing. The home tries to give him activities that makes him feel useful. He can no longer that the things that he really wants such as working, but the caregivers can create such atmosphere to make him feel wanted and useful.

Thanks for the post,

Nina

Christine Kennard, Health Guide

4/30/11 4:41am

Hi Nina

 

It sounds as though your FIL is in a very good care home. As you point out, the options for people in late stage Alzheimer's are more limited. I suppose the point is that care home staff still try to make their lives meaningful for each individual. That is difficult.

 

We must never forget that many staff work very hard, work unsocial hours, for very little money.

 

Thanks Nina

 

Christine