THE FLIP SIDE

In my previous post, I discussed the positive aspects of living in a group home. I fought to get out of LTC. I went against my family. I would not listen to anyone. A group home was the answer to my prayers  I was sure of it.

I am not discounting anything I wrote in my previous post.  I enjoy living in a group home for all the reasons I discussed. 

Hindsight is 20/20.  If had known in 2018 what I know now I might have chosen to move to another nursing home when the activities and choice of meal options at the one I lived in were streamlined. I might have chosen a group home. I came here to live my life. There is always a stipulation or condition to everything I ask to do. They tell me I am an adult. I am my own person. Most of the time it does not feel that way,

I continue to enjoy writing for this agency's newsletter. I am grateful to have the opportunity.

 

 I am glad the staff can no longer take me to purchase my cocktails  All the rumors, finger-pointing, and blame will stop. If it was such an issue the policy should have remained I effect. Cocktails in a restaurant or with friends are more fun anyway.

I miss Happy Hour, the ice cream social, and pet therapy, (Dogs are not allowed in the house.) Ordering take-out with my tablemates and theme days. What I miss the most is talking to people.

Most of my resident friends have passed away. My staff friends have moved on. My old nursing home is under new management. It's not the same anymore 

I have the same feeling of apprehension and dread now that I did when I was told I was getting a roommate in the nursing home. The difference is all my staff friends stopped by on the day my roommate moved in. My therapist came by too. Everyone knew how upsetting getting a roommate was for me. Here, no one cares. It's not their problem. It's a business decision.

Reading this I am sure you are confused. I know I am. I do not know what would be the best option for me. I better decide quickly. August 1st is fast approaching. The only thing I know for certain is that I am scared.

I am disappointed in my case manager's lack of assistance. He put me on the list for an accessible group home but when it comes to researching and calling nursing homes that task has been left entirely up to me. It's embarrassing when contacts inquire about my case manager and tell me he should be making the inquiries for me. They want to know about my care plan. They want to talk to him not me. 

Today I am leaning toward going to a good Medicaid skilled nursing facility. Tomorrow I might lean the other way again. Waffling is my biggest problem.

When I talk about the things I deserve I am called an Elitist. I am better than no one. I want a good life and good care from staff who care.  I want the same for the ladies I have lived with for the past five years.

And if it's not too much to ask...

A patio, a Margarita, and good conversation.