Nana went for visits at our two favorite facilities last week. On paper, they were quite even-- while one place had more freedoms, the other one had more warmth. One was large; one was small. We took Nana to both, hoping that one place would clearly outshine the other; or perhaps Dad would send us a message from heaven that made our choice extremely clear.
At the first facility, we walked in the door and were greeted by three very sweet, happy ladies- "Welcome!", they cheered as we walked in. They were taking the dog for a walk with a a guide and a group of other residents. Nana loves walks AND puppies, so this seemed like a good start. She joined the group, while I toured the facility. There was a class going on at the end of the hall-- a group was studying Italy, through photographs, games and short lectures. As we walked down the hallway, a woman walked slowly by with a walker. My guide called out to her by name. "Lena, how are you today?"
"I'm hungry."
My guide excused himself and walked Lena to the kitchen.
"What would you like to eat?"
"I like ice cream."
"Then let's get ice cream." (It is 10:30 am.... :) ) Ten points to this first place!
Upon returning to the unit, Nana joined the Italy class. The puppy joined us in the meeting room, resting her head on my lap. This pup is a real treasure, moving around the room and visiting with every member. (There is also a few birds and a guinea pig here. Nana definitely loved all the pets.)
Nana joined in on the Italy class, recognizing landmarks and sharing stories of her trip to Italy with my Dad.
I asked Nana what she thought of this place. She asked, "What is this place for?" I explained that it was a home that specialized in helping people with Alzheimers. They worked with the Boston University Alzheimers research program, and that she would live there if she would like. She was quiet for a minute or two.
"Can I afford it?"
"Yes you can," I said.
"Then I like it.", she answered. Quiet for a moment, she added, "God bless your father."
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Two days later, we went to the other facility. We were greeted by the head of the Cognitive Specialty Group, which works closely with the residents who are the highest functioning, planning special events and activities. Nana was invited to join the group for the afternoon, and she readily accepted. I left for a few hours and then returned.
When I arrived, Nana was sitting in the dining area, waiting for a snack. (There is no leaving when there is chocolate to be eaten!) I waited while Nana waited for her snack. Nana seemed pretty content, but a bit confused. She kept jumping from the table, asking me if I wanted to join her for a piece of cake. I declined, enjoying the ability to watch Nana's interactions from afar. I noticed that the group was mixed between two tables. At Nana's table, there were three other women. I introduced myself, and all three ladies stared blankly at me. One woman looked a little angry (which, of course, is not unusual with Alzheimers sufferers.) The other table, a group of three men and three women, were laughing and interacting with each other. After Nana finished her cake, she packed up her napkin, paper plate and cup, and stood to find a trash can. "AAACCKKK!," shrieked a woman on the other table, "Look at Jane-- she is throwing away her own trash!" She cackled again and slapped the hand of the fellow next to her, who then joined in the laughter. I was reminded of middle school, and the Queen Bees and wannabes...
"I think I'm ready to go, " Nana said. Me too. Nobody laughs at Nana. With her, yes. But at her? No way. She didn't ask any questions about the facility on the ride home.
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The choice was easy, in the end. Both programs sounded great on paper. But one program outshone the other upon execution.
Plus my Father's Mom was named Lena. And Nana's favorite food is ice cream (thanks for the help, Dad.)
Compass Point in Hopkinton, here we come (once the bed is ready...)
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