My mother was recently admitted to an ALF memory care unit for Alzheimer. Each and every time that I visit the facility, she is in bed and not socializing with others. According to the ALF staff, she got in an argument last evening with her roommate and scratched her hand. She has had no history of violence whatsoever. I went to visit her early that same evening and she was not feeling well (dizzy and weak). When I reported her symptoms to the nurse. The nurse told me that she felt there was nothing to worry about. However, if I felt she needed to go to the hospital, then I should take her. I reported what the nurse stated to me the next morning to the Admission's Director and told her that I was uncomfortable with the response. It was only then I was told about the argument with her roommate. I'm not sure what to believe. However, my mother did tell me that her roommate stole her sunglasses later in the day, which I found in her drawer. My mother was doing fine before she entered the ALF, but now she wants to go home. She thinks that she is going home after "rehab". I keep telling her she needs to be there a little longer. The ALF staff have told me to stay away for two days so that she can adjust to the new living arrangement. I have agreed to this. A different ALF nurse asked me if they can give her Ativan drug. I am a little concerned about her care at this ALF. Should I be?
Keep advocating for your mother, SharonB, and go with your gut the best you can. Know that whatever decision you make, you are doing the best you can, and that's all any of us can do, right? (i'm preaching to myself here). Take care.
Listen to what their providers and adhere to the rules, because they have been up and down that road many times.
God Bless your Mom and you also.
I've noticed that there can be a wide variance in the personalities/attitudes of nurses. There are angel nurses over there, I'm sure----just look for one of them and get to know her, and she can help and advocate for your mother.