Clouds with silver linings?

[mrs.chappie]

My uncle, aged 87, was a heavy smoker from being a young lad.

He now, sadly, has dementia, and is in a care home.

Strange thing is, he appears to have forgotten that he used to smoke. He makes no mention of wanting a fag. If he did, he wouldn't be able to nip outside for one, due to limited mobility. And I very much doubt that the carers would have the time/be allowed to take him outside for this.

Does anyone have a similar story to tell?

[mrs.chappie]

Yes, ummmm. I attend to his toilet needs whilst I am there. Mostly just emptying his catheter bag, tbh. I'm willing to do this, to free up the staff for other stuff.

I've seen many bad care homes, also I have seen the Panorama type programmess where old folk are tied to chairs, supposedly for their own safety. This home's not fault-free, but it is certainly one of the better ones.

[ummmm]

My Nans home is good. We're always dropping in so we see it as it really is. They were doing art last time I picked her up. Friday evenings is Kareoke (sp) and they have exercise classes everyday...

You'd expect that for £434 per week that my Grandad is paying...

[mrs.chappie]

They have regular sing-songs at my Uncle's place, karaoke-style with the lyrics being shown on the telly screen. They have printed song sheets ... somebody puts a lot of effort into this, as a lot of the residents can't actually read the words on the sheet. I often go in and sing along with them, and encourage them to join in.

The staff arrange afternoon outings to the seaside in good weather. Everyone gets an ice-cream and fish and chips (whether they want it or not ... lol). They have a sherry afternoon where the residents can watch an old film while having a sherry. All sorts of activities are planned for those that can partake. It is expensive though ... as most of them are.