First Time at Day Care

Whyzit

Today was the first time that DH went to day care. He went believing he is a volunteer. He didn’t want me to go in with him, just wanted to be dropped off. Unfortunately, the director wanted me to go over protocol if COVID problems resurfaced so we went in together. They have an electronic sign in system that checks your ID, takes your temp and requires answering the typical COVID questions. DH won’t be able to do that on his own so no just dropping him off.

When I picked him up at days end (9 am to 3 pm) he was relaxed and cheerful (alive). He participated in exercise, various groups and even a men’s only group. He liked the roast pork and beets for lunch. He did not have one negative comment. I am amazed.

I had a great day too. After doing my Bible study, I cleaned his nasty lazy boy chair using foam carpet cleaner. I wanted to do this before but it is hard to clean a chair with a body in it all the time. LOL  It worked super. I did other household tasks and then attended our condos barbecue. It was so great to just sit and talk with my neighbors. Super, super, refreshing day. Ahhhhhhhhh how refreshing for me.   AND.  I get to do this twice a week.

Stuck in the middle

Sounds like win - win to me!

amicrazytoo

Love to hear about the wins! May I ask, is your DH a social able guy? I would love to get mine in a Daycare, but he’s not a social type person.

Joe C.

That is great that it went so well. I hope you have continued success with the daycare.

Jeff86

Very happy for you, Whyzit, that the first day was so successful…for both of you.

Ed1937

This has to be one of, if not the most positive post I've seen. Good for you!

French

I am happy for you. you will have 2 days for you! He also has something to do outside of your home, it’s good for him.

 My partner also enjoys daycare a lot. He never remind what they have done, but no matters.

Yesterday I called the daycare director. She confirmed he was still happy there but also that he was less and less able to participate to the activities. For the moment it is still ok because he discusses a little, still jokes. But she encouraged me to consider that when he won’t be able to participate, his place won’t be there. It was a cold shower for me because for me daycare is essential to be able to work in the day. I was beginning to organize a placement for the beginning of 2022, with 2 respite stays before that, that will serve as trials.

Adult daycare is for me the best solution because of activities all along the day.

Whyzit

Amicrazyto you asked about DH personality. When he was working in engineering sales, he was social because he had to be for the job. Generally he was not outgoing, didn’t initiate conversation or go out of his way to socialize. That is why I was so surprised and relieved yesterday as I really expected him to say he would not go back which has been his pattern of late. Currently also says no to almost all requests which is normal for Alz.. We never know if we don’t try. DH doesn’t need to be happy, just safe and well cared for. I had reached my limit on trying to be everything, do everything and yesterday was a must for my survival. I’m just grateful for how it worked out.

French, as I drove up to the day care I wondered how long it would be before DH won’t be capable of doing it. Some of my two “free days” are going to be spent visiting and getting DH on waiting lists for memory care plus meeting with my CELA to go over the forms MC requires in order to be put on their waiting list. I don’t want to sign anything without it being reviewed and approved by my attorney. Also Medicaid will need to be handled. So while I feel free,, in reality I’m not because I have to take care of business. But I choose to be as positive and upbeat about this process as I can. (Not poor me but rather blessed me because If I am wise in how I use this time, it is truly freeing.) Plan B has to be in place and that will be another gift to me. Thanks to all who have responded to my joy. We benefit when we guard our hearts and minds.