Alberta Health Services

The Heart-Wrenching Choice: Do You Really Want to Be a Care Home's Next Resident?

Choosing a long-term care facility can feel like a mission impossible. Dive into the emotional journey with heartfelt stories from those who’ve navigated this tough decision!

Making the choice to place a loved one in a long-term care facility is akin to standing at a crossroad, where every path seems daunting. For many families, especially those in Alberta, this important decision is often filled with a whirlwind of emotions including guilt, love, and uncertainty. Residents and their families share the struggles they face, shedding light on the heavy decision-making process that ensues when their loved ones can no longer care for themselves in a home setting.

One poignant story comes from a widow who found herself grappling with her own feelings as she prepared to place her ailing husband in what was supposed to be a veterans’ facility. "It’s supposed to be a veterans facility," she shared, highlighting her distress as she anticipated a safe and dignified environment for her partner. These stories illustrate that every heart-wrenching decision is unique, yet it resonates with the collective experience many families endure.

The emotional toll this decision takes isn't only felt by those directly involved; it has a ripple effect on the entire family. As loved ones wrestle with the implications of such a choice, frustrations can mount, turning family gatherings into discussions laden with emotional tension. It’s not uncommon for families to redefine their roles, moving from family members to caregivers, and then transitioning again to long-distance decision-makers when their loved one enters a facility.

As these families navigate the waters of long-term care, they discover that they are not alone. Alberta has numerous resources and support networks available to help families, including mental health services and advocacy groups. It’s important for families to lean into these resources as they make this important choice. Remember, the decision to place a loved one in care is not indicative of failing to care, but an acknowledgment of their needs as well as your capacity to provide the care they deserve.

Interestingly, did you know that there are over 1,900 long-term care facilities across Canada? This means that families have a wide array of options to consider when making such an important decision. Additionally, Alberta has been actively working to improve the quality of care in these facilities, prioritizing better staffing standards and enhanced training programs — proof that the government is committed to making living conditions more comfortable for the aging population. So while the choice to place a loved one in care can seem challenging, remember that there is a community ready to support you through this emotional journey.