my daughter now 38 years old was in a car accident 12 years ago. she has a medium dai. (diffuse axon injury) as a result she spends about 21 hours a day in bed. I visit her as much as I can. she is bored to death. but the nursing home always seems to have a reason for her being in bed so long. I have tried and trie. does anyone have any ideas for me .
thanks
our local hospital has a 'day recreation' program for peoope who do not live in a nursing home but for people who stay at their own homes and go to the hospital for recreation. my daughter however does not qualify for this.
her problem is that because she lives in a nursing home she receives all the benefits of living in a nursing home and no more. so she is treated like an old person.
fortuneatly my daughter did receive some insurance money not long ago. I am presently trying to hire a sitter to help me.
presently I take my daughter home 3x a week for the day. this is very very stressful. I am getting so stressed about my daughter at the nursing home ; that I am wondering if I could keep her home every day and take her back to the nursing home in the evenings. some people already told me that this is very very stressful and would put me in an early grave. I have no idea what to do Jeanne. thanks for your letter.
I feel very sorry for younger people who have to remain in a facility geared toward a couple of generations older than them!
Are there any facilities in the area that might be a better fit?
Are there even any day programs that might be suitable for a few hours some days a week?
What about hiring a companion for a few hours a day, to take her out in the sunshine, have "conversations" via the alphabet board, or just give her something to look forward to? Did the accident provide any kind of settlement that could be used to pay for use services?
I agree about the bingo, fiddle players not to mention square dancers. and anything else you might mention. Could she manage a computer, listen to music, learn an instrument or something similar.
You are right she should not be in bed for so many hours. She could be pushed out side in a wheelchair and enjoy the sunshine. that is something you could do .
Your daughter runs all sorts of health risks by remaining in bed so you do need to advocate for her. Don't just accept what the NH tells you if you don't think it is right...
thanks
Is your daughter unable to communicate?
If I spent 21 hours in bed I'd be bored to death too. She should be up and going to activities and being around other people. Have you discussed this with the facility?