I have moved back officially to the cold Midwest in the heart of winter but so thankful I had the opportunity to transfer with my job and be close to my Mom.
The first week was chaos as she was at United Hospital. She was there 2.5 weeks and finally settled into a routine, took her medications freely, and was eating each meal. They were ready to discharge however we didn't have a new home for her. After touring and calling numerous places, we quickly found out how difficult this disease is. Because of her high desire to "leave" wherever she is at, she's a risk. Also swallowing has become far more difficult so she has a specialized diet. We are testing out options but at the moment "mechanical soft foods" - meaning chopped up and nothing rough - are all she can eat. And all liquids must be thickened.
So with the risk of wanting to leave, still having a high conscious level, and the swallowing/eating issues - there just aren't many places that can accommodate.
Fortunately United works closely with a memory care facility in St Paul. On Wednesday evening we got the go ahead, moved her items into the small bedroom and she was discharged on Thursday. It's called Alton Memory Care in St Paul.
She lives in the Highland Neighborhood which is a small wing on the 3rd floor specific to behavioral issues.
Everyone is welcome to visit without prior notice and at anytime - staff is onsite 24/7.
If you visit and want to bring food - she currently loves McDonalds Big Macs :) and can eat them as long as the nurse aids cut it into fourths. She can have the french fries as well. Soda needs to be thickened (diet coke is her current preference). Nurse aids in the unit can thicken any liquids.
You can visit with her in the common living area, play a game, watch TV in the TV room or try and just enjoy her company.
Pictures are a great thing to bring as well as artwork from kids, cards or any mementos. Please DO NOT bring any food items unless discussed with me prior as her diet is strict. Also please do not bring anything of high value as the rooms are not locked and many residents tend to wander in and out. Also no purses or bags of any type - she likes to pack her things as if she is leaving.
Also disregard her phone. She still has it as it's her safety however we will likely turn it off. She still tends to call multiple times and has trouble answering. No need to call her prior.
The more visitors the better. Eventually once she settles more, she'll be able to participate in some of the group activities off her unit but for now it's best she stays there.
You don't have spend much time with her - even a quick stop in is welcome. And as I said, 24/7 staff so visit anytime. She doesn't sleep much anyways. If you can make a visit for whatever reason, please send postcards, cards with songs, pictures, etc...
If you have any questions - please don't hesitate to ask me.
Thank you all for your continued love and support.
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