Well yesterday was my husband's first day at "The Club". He loved it ! It's a Adult Day care available at an assisted living facility that runs "The Club". He will go there once a week. He was a little nervous about it and didn't really remember just what the plan was so I would just remind him each day prior to him going. We left our place about 9:00 a.m. Wednesday. Everyone there was so warm and welcoming. While I was finalizing paperwork with the director, I soon could hear my husband laughing and blabbing! As I stepped out to head home he was sitting with the group doing some stretches. Smiling from ear to ear. I waved goodbye. Walking to the car, the first thought that popped into my head was " He looked like a kindergarteners all excited on his first day of school". I picked him up at 3:30. They were playing a game where the director would say a phrase and everyone would guess who said it. Mind you this "Club" is totally geared to people with memory issues so their activities are done in a way that there is no pressure to be "right". Everyone is having fun and laughs. On the way home my husband had so much to talk about. He told me he helped others to do the Wii bowling. Was really good for his ego because this dementia and how it has made so many things he used to impossible or extremely difficult had really been depressing to him. He was on top of the world. I know this disease will progress, but for now I'm glad he's finding some joy and purpose. Next week he will be going with the group to the Museum of Natural History. It's definitely going to take a bite out of the budget but is worth it and I will be very frugal wherever I can. If I can't afford to keep it going at least I tried.
Unfortunately, after I pick my hubby up, he doesn't remember being there so I can't ask him any questions about his enjoyment.
Glad you decided to use that excellent resource!
Most people with dementia have good days and not-as-good days. It may happen that he has a bad day at the Club. That is OK. They can deal with it. Don't let it discourage you as to the overall value of the program.
And for people who have less than this wonderful first day experience, know that some patients do take a while to warm up to the whole experience. Don't let a bad first day discourage you.
Adult day care is an exceptional resource. I'd love to see it expanded and available in more places.