Over the past few weeks her agitation, anxiety and fixation on "leaving" to the next place has rapidly progressed. While Red Cedar Canyon in Hudson provided fantastic care, her needs are more than they are equipped for at this time. This past weekend, she stayed with friends (thanks Rudy's!) and Nick spent Saturday with her then on Sunday went to the family's in the Medford.
Last week the search started again for a new facility that is a locked unit, can take care of her day to day needs (bathing, eating, and just watching TV are slipping from her) provide activities, and most importantly keep her safe. Aunt Jeannie (thank you!!!) searched through the many places, toured a handful last Friday, and we decided on a new memory care unit in Burnsville. It's part of the Ebenezer system and next to the Fairview Hospital as well. Monday Hudson friends (thanks Toot, Carol, and Trix) toured and unanimously agreed it was perfect. Then Jeannie and Todd took Mom for an assessment and it proved far more difficult.
Our biggest struggle has been finding a team or even just one Doctor to assist in ongoing care of Mom. We have no primary care physician, her neurologist helps when we can, and Mayo (after days of tests and thousands of dollars) will not help with ongoing care or prescribe medications. They do however have suggestions of meds that can help with the behavioral symptoms of FTD.
At the assessment for the new facility, it was determined that she absolutely needs to be medicated for any place to take her in. After exhausting all options we decided for her safety and peace of mind, plus our inability to properly care for her, that a geriatric psych unit was the best choice.
Yesterday we spent hours and hours finding a place and getting her admitted. Finally late in the afternoon she was accepted to United Hospital Geriatric Psych Unit in downtown St Paul. This is by far the toughest decision I/we have made. It's absolutely not what you want to ever happen to a parent but collectively we knew that it was the only choice and the best way to get Robin the care she needs.
I am keeping in touch with the social worker, Doctor, psychiatrist, and nurse team in the unit to know what the status is. Last night Robin fixated on finding a way out and sitting by the door. She won't eat, drink, sleep or accept any type of help. This morning they did put restraints in place. We cannot (or shouldn't) visit or talk to her until she is more situated. When I let my mind wander, I can only imagine how scared, lonely, confused and sad she must be. We all pray they find the right medication to help her calm down and be at peace more. Until then I'm giving them as many tips about her care as possible - watching the movie Radio, love of spicy foods, talking about past memories.
With that said, we hope the Arbors care unit in Burnsville works out however she may need an even more intensive care level than we thought so the search is still on. She is progressing rapidly and no doubt this stay in the hospital will take a toll on her mind and body. The Doctor has prepared me for when I move back next week to notice a significant difference in my Mom. I knew this was coming but I continue to pray I find the best in every moment I share with her.
No comments:
Post a Comment