brilala

I️ am an executive director of a memory care and assisted living community. The time is never “right” for my families, only necessary for the safety of the resident. Make sure you discuss with your family now that you are ok with the idea of living in a community setting when needed. Usually by the time it is necessary for their safety, the resident doesn’t know or understand why the move is happening. Almost every one of my families feels guilt for putting their loved one in a secure memory care environment.

Any good memory care community will let you spend time there, have lunch, take as many tours as you need. It may be scary for you as a 45 year old to see advanced dementia, but most communities personalize care for each and every individual. Volunteer to read or do art or sing or whatever your hobbies are at a local memory care. You and your family will see that it’s not a scary place, and will feel more comfortable when the time comes that your family wants you to feel supported with a care team.

Memory care is expensive and you are young. In my area it is between $6k and $9k per month. Protect your assets as long as you are safe at home.

We have a lot of fun with our residents and it’s not a scary place at all. Every one of my staff truly loves the residents and I️ would go to the ends of the earth and back for my community. When the time comes, good people will be there to help you. I️ wish you all the love and respect on your journey!

What is your opinion on pet overpopulation? I understand those like yourself who breed less common types of dogs, but in general, do good breeders educate themselves on the industry as a whole? (Backyard breeding, spay/neuter regulations, etc)? My family ran a dog rescue (Great Pyrenees) for several years and the quantity of dogs that are euthanized every day let alone year is troubling to say the least. What can responsible breeders do to alleviate this issue?

Thanks for the great response! I haven't found many breeders willing to talk about the subject, so I really appreciate it. Working in animal welfare can make people very jaded. We hear and deal with horror stories almost every day, but I do try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. Education is the key!