Today, at 9:00am, I took my spouse for enrollment in the VA supported Day Care Center, administered by "Interfaith", a non-denominational service group, using the recreation center of St. Clement's Catholic Church. The following is the course of events:
1. Meet and talk with the resident nurse. Her name was Mary and she began with a review of his medical history (I provided an in-depth, current chronology that included parents, siblings, their dates of death and causes of death; current doctors, with phone numbers; all medications being taken, amount and daily usage, including vitamins and other over-the-counter medication. Surgerys: when, and why was it necessary. A copy of the social security card, medicare and any other insurance card and Durable Power of Attorney.
The nurse asked more questions relative to cancer, hepatitus, blood transfusions or blood diseases. She took blood pressure, weight and then proceeded to administer what was termed a "mini memory" test. I was not allowed to answer or aid in any of the responses to: What is the date today; what day is it (Mon. Tues. etc); what season are we in now; what level is this building on (street, 2nd floor, basement); She then said: I am going to say three words (house, cake, tree) and will have you repeat them later. Pointing at objects on her person she asked for the identity of her watch and a pen. She asked that a sentence be written that included both a noun and a verb. She then asked for the three words.
2. A representative of "Interfaith" then requested signatures and gave explanations of numerous forms: Privacy Practices; days and dates of operation; holiday closings; lunch time (today was minestrone soup, flank steak, potatoes au gratin and mixed vegetables); fees (with a 4 hour minimum - $10 - $10.50 an hour with additional fees for bathing, toenail or finger nail clipping, plus) if you are not covered by the VA; billing; acceptable behavior; Publicity release form; release of information forms and Patient's Rights. Who is an alternate if you can't be reached (give 2 people); In case of your death who will pay bills, care for your spouses needs, find another facility? What if you are hospitalized for 5 days? All of the representatives and nursing staff can and will provide necessary assistance and/or guidance, if needed. Finally, how to sign in and sign out for each visit and where to pick up your name badge.
My husband is a Veteran covered under the contracted price of $15.00 a day. For those who are not, other insurance(s) may provide relief. Regarding behavior, there is no hugging of anyone and there is no use of any foul language, e.g. damn, B.S. or J.C., to mention a few and my spouse uses them all and will require immediate behavioral modification. When an Alzheimer's patient cannot recall the exact word it is not uncommon for them to use explitives. In addition, huggng does not have to be familiar or suggestive. I was surprised at this restriction. All centers are, of course, not the same, but I hope this will provide enough information to help each and everyone prepare in advance.
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