Saturday, April 23, 2011

New Beginnings Part Two

When I last updated this blog we had made arrangements for Dad to be admitted to The Rafael nursing home. However, too many problems and complications made me look for an alternative. And I found it!

Today has been a day with mixed emotions for me as I had Dad admitted to the Pine Ridge Care Center in San Rafael. We'd been preparing Dad for this day but, as I expected, he has no recollection of our discussions. In fact, I discussed it with him three times today about how he would now be in a place where he would receive better care on a 24/7 basis. All he said to me was, "I didn't know I was such a bother." His words hurt as I knew there was no way I could explain in a way that would make sense to him.

We walk around the facility and showed him the various features such as the patio, main dining room, and sitting areas. Shelley and Tabitha unpacked his bag and got him situated in his room while I sign all the admittance forms.

Dad has a room mate named Mario and he loves to talk in Spanish. Mario is from El Salvador and is confined to a wheelchair. He and his wife, Maria, are very nice and welcomed Dad with enthusiasm.

I will be visiting Dad on a regular basis as will Tabitha who lives one exit away. If any of you would like to send Dad cards or pictures, you can do so to the following address:

David Manriquez
c/o Pine Ridge Care Center
45 Professional Center Parkway
San Rafael, CA 94903

Here are a few photos I took of Dad getting settled in his room. We will be bringing his family pictures to put on his wall and some other personal items to make his room as comfortable as possible.
I asked Dad to try out his bed and this is how he positioned himself.

So I told him to loosen up and so he made this pose.

Shelley, Dad, and Tabitha

Shelley is trying to adjust his bed.

Now he is comfortable!
Around 5:15 p.m. Dad said he was hungry and by 5:30 he had been escorted to the dining room where he sat with three other residents. He didn't even notice we weren't in the room. We took this opportunity to quietly exit so as not to upset him.

I will continue to update this blog with Dad's progress. Also, if any family members would like to come to visit Dad, just let me know and I will help you make arrangements. You all know how to contact me if you have any questions.

Till next time and remember, it's not fun getting old!