Hey all..
Both of my parents are in a very nice memory care. There are a few situations that come up that make things more difficult for me during my visits.
Typically I like to sit with my parents in the back yard of the facility (weather permitting).. and I also bring my puppy.. which my parents, the house dog... and some of the other residents really enjoy.
The problem I have is with some of the other residents (not all.. just the more difficult ones).. some of the staff and family member will see me out with my puppy and bring other residents out there.. and leave them there unattended.. with me to watch them.. and which makes my visit so much more difficult. My visits can be stressful enough without adding other residents for me to watch.
Last visit with my puppy.. one of the new male resident grabbed the leash from me.. and wouldn't let go.. and made a motion like he was going to hit me. This resident was led out to the backyard by his family member.. who took him to the backyard.. and promptly left him. I was extremely uncomfortable with that situation.
Today I went for a lunch visit.. and one of the staff took the same man out as soon as she saw me going to the backyard... and left him there. Its almost like they see me as the entertainment... This makes my visit harder... I know this place is the other residents home too but I really don't think it is fair to encourage other residents to go outside while I am trying to visit with my parents... and expect me to watch them.
I am going to have a meeting next week and am thinking about mentioning this to the administrator.. do you all think it is a valid complaint.. or is this just something I need to deal with?
Maybe they think because you have a dog you're a professional on staff?
"I'm so sorry, I'm just hear to visit my mom; I can't be responsible for your loved one". I think that should cover it.
You shouldn't have to go inside, or confront staff, let alone another family.
Make sure you post how it went.
And, during your meeting, you absolutely need to address this. A man who has the potential to be violent has no business being left alone with the family of another resident or out by himself with no supervision. Just simply leave and finish your visit indoors.
I go in there acting like I am having fun (and I think they might think it is a big party for me).. actually it isn't and I do the energetic fun thing to try to have a successful visit.. and often when I leave I am exhausted.
Today one of the residents came out and said.. I heard there was a party going on out here.. so I think they are trying to get them to come out.. which I wouldn't mind if someone from the staff came out as well... or a family member.
My meeting is Tuesday.. so I will update the thread with how that turned out..
Thanks..
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