Summa Care - Scottsdale

Summa Care is very caring and thoughtful. They do whatever they can to be sure my mother is comfortable, even so far as getting a cable box for the TV so she can watch her game shows and old western TV shows. The food is good, and we are always invited to stay and share a meal with Mom. At Easter, they welcomed us to bring over Easter dinner to share with Mom at "her" home. It was a tough transition for my mother with Alzheimer's, moving from an independent-living situation to a group home. She got very confused and was extremely agitated her first couple of weeks there, her Sundowner's symptoms worsening after the move. I admit I was dismayed when on day 5 the caregiver suggested we put her on Seroquel to calm the agitation. I had heard that group homes just want to medicate their patients to deal with them, and here it was happening already! But I told them we DO NOT want Mom medicated unless it is absolutely necessary, and they were willing to wait. The caregiver was able to sit and visit with Mom during her tough times, and even tried giving her the herbal Sleepy Time tea I bought to calm Mom down, which helped a little bit. I have been impressed with how attentive the caregivers are, but my mother complains that they are ALWAYS with her, ALWAYS follow her into the bathroom, and are ALWAYS holding her hand. Mom uses a walker and occasionally needs assistance. My only real complaint is the lack of activities. There is one activity a day at Summa, which sometimes consists of watching TV and eating popcorn for that day's activity. It makes me wonder how much interaction goes on during that time. One Saturday I brought over hard-boiled eggs and a coloring kit at Eastertime, and engaged my mom and one other resident with the decorating of eggs. It was fun, and I think easy activities like that entertains the residents, giving them something to do and a chance to interact, rather than watching TV all day long. I realize that Alzheimer patients may not readily participate in activities, but it seems defeatist to not even offer an interesting opportunity to join in a group effort. All in all, though, I think this home will be a good fit for my mother. There are four residents and two caregivers, who, as I've said, are very attentive and caring. They are certainly willing to try whatever we suggest to help Mom live comfortably. They also make sure Mom does her arm strengthening exercises, and even offered some new exercises to help strengthen her legs, which was really above and beyond the thoughtfulness I expected, and was truly appreciated. The caregivers also are willing to call and provide updates on how Mom is doing, and they readily answer any How's Mom Today questions we have. At this particular home, there is a beautiful backyard with grapefruit trees, a lemon tree and tangerine tree, and roses, with a beautiful gazebo to enjoy the outdoors in. We usually spend an hour or so each weekend, just sitting outside and enjoying the scenery. I would certainly recommend this facility, knowing your loved one will receive good care with very kind caregivers.