My wife and I live in a beautiful 3200 sq. foot home in the mts. of CO. We only use the master bedroom and bathroom. I use the kitchen to prepare very easy meals. My wife had an AD diagnosis 5 yrs. ago but was probably showing signs several years before that. She is in stage 5+ of the disease. I plan to take care of her for the rest of her life (I am 81 and in good health, she is 78 and in good health except for the AD). I would like to know what is needed in this apartment that our daughter and son-in-law are going to build. Any specific types of furniture, bathroom aids. Types of toilets, showers, etc. Kitchenette facilities. A/C, fans. Types of beds. I am assuming that the apt. will be basically one large room and that is all we need. Being close to our daughter and assistance will be very helpful. Now we live about an hour away from Boulder or Golden, CO. I have always been very capable of building and preparing construction but now I need more specific advice to confront circumstances that are brand new to my wife and myself. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
I have done a lot of research myself but we are entering uncharted territory and I would love any voices of experience from people who have been down this road before.
Thank you. Eddie B.
One line in your statement kind of stuck me, and that is the one that states you are entering into uncharted territory. You said you live in a beautiful home in CO.
I am 67 years old, and have an incurable disease, but I have told my family that I want to stay in my home as long as possible, until I have to go into hospice care because my home is where I am and I can be most comfortable, and I am most happy staying in my home. There is no substitute for staying where you love to live. Right now, I get help once or twice a week to do my laundry and do general light cleaning, and as I get worse, I can add more in-home care to meet my needs, along with any kind of help that my family offers me that does not put too much of a strain on their lives and families.
Just think about the idea of staying where you are, equipping you current home with all the items necessary to keep your wife and you safe and happy, and any medical devices that she will need to stay in your home can be rented or purchased, or may be covered under your medical insurance plan.
I am sure that taking care of your wife is a bit taxing for you, but I do not know show much.
If you can afford it, or your medical insurance can help, I suggest that you check out some very reputable in-home care companies, who can provide 24/7 in-home care by a professional or whatever kind of daily assistance you need and can afford to keep the two of you comfortable and together, and keep your wife and you living on and on together in area and in the home the home I believe that you both love.
This is only an idea. Since I do not know either of you, this is the best bit of advice I can offer to you as a non-professional. I am just another human being who hopes every single thing works out great for the both of you, no matter what you choose to do.
With my regards, and a long distance hug to the both of you from me, in Florida.
taz0921 ( aka Stan Z. )