Dementia, Responsibility, and the Right Decision

A personal story about dementia, responsibility, and making the right decision.

When life slowly begins to change

Hello, my name is Harald. I would like to share my personal story – how my wife Verena’s dementia developed and why we ultimately decided on CAREWELL-SERVICE.

For a long time, our life together was very active and fulfilling. We were retired, traveled a lot, and truly enjoyed life. But over time, the first small changes began to appear – changes that were easy to overlook at first. In everyday life, they still seemed subtle, and there was always an explanation.

“Interestingly, it wasn’t me, but our daughter who first noticed that something wasn’t right.”

For me personally, these changes were initially difficult to interpret. Looking back, we later realized that these were already the first signs.

As time went on, these changes became more and more noticeable – especially in new environments, where her orientation increasingly declined and even simple routines suddenly became challenging.

A defining moment was a trip to Sri Lanka. That was when it became clear for the first time how serious the situation really was. In a completely new environment, she was often overwhelmed and no longer knew what would happen next.

At that point, we realized how far things had already progressed. From then on, it was clear that we could no longer manage this on our own.

Like many others, we initially tried to find a solution within our familiar environment. Day care, support in everyday life, and initial relief were the most obvious steps. Among other things, we used a day care center for people with early-stage dementia, which my wife attended once or twice a week for about a year and a half.

At first, this seemed like good support. But over time, it became clear that it was not a long-term solution. When I picked her up and brought her home, she was often disoriented and difficult to reach, and overall, the situation became increasingly challenging for us.

Discussions about other options did not really lead anywhere either. At one point, a temporary stay in a nursing home was suggested – but this approach did not feel right for us.

“We felt that in traditional care facilities, there is often not enough time for individual attention.”

It became increasingly clear to us that it’s not just about care, but about attention, patience, and genuine human connection.

Years earlier, we had already developed a strong connection to Asia. My wife, in particular, had a deep affinity for Buddhism and always felt very comfortable in that culture. The values, the mindset, and especially the way older people are treated always impressed us.

“It was important to us that not only the medical care is right, but also the environment – a culture where calmness, respect, and humanity are truly lived.”

With this in mind, it was important for us to find a solution that also fits her personality and who she is.

This is how the desire grew to find a form of support that combines professional care with genuine human warmth in everyday life.

Why we chose CAREWELL

When we first came across CAREWELL-SERVICE, there was an immediate sense of trust. I had come across it online before, but at that time, it wasn’t yet the right moment.

Later, when we revisited the topic, I brought it up again with the family. It quickly became clear to all of us that this was the right direction. I reached out, and the quick and understanding response from the owner, Anita Somaini, immediately gave me a good feeling.

What mattered most to us was that the care is structured and offers a level of quality we are familiar with from Europe – especially from Switzerland. The Swiss management and the associated standards gave us strong confidence from the very beginning.

For us, it quickly became clear that CAREWELL was the right solution for our situation. This combination of structure, experience, and a genuinely human approach to the residents was something we had not seen before. Not because everything sounded perfect, but because it felt right.

Shortly after her arrival, it became clear what makes the difference. My wife arrived, sat down with others, and immediately started interacting. In particular, she quickly formed a connection with another resident, Christina. In that moment, we realized how naturally and quickly she found her place.

There was no uncertainty, no withdrawal – just calm.

“What touched us deeply was this: when she feels sad, someone comes, takes her in their arms, and takes care of her immediately.”

In that moment, I understood what truly matters – not organization or structure, but real human connection. It was always important to us to take this path together.

“This decision was supported by the entire family – and continues to be supported to this day.”

Of course, we also asked ourselves whether it might be difficult to be so far apart. But for me, the answer is clear. I know she is well cared for. I see it every time I visit, and I can feel it in the atmosphere. That gives me the sense of security you need as a relative.

The right decision

Looking back today, I know it was not an easy decision. But it was the right one. Not just because the care works, but because she is seen as a person.

And in the end, that is what truly matters – for her, and for us as a family.

If your family is facing the same decision

Choosing dementia care for someone you love is never easy. If you’d like to talk through your situation — with no pressure — we’re here to listen.

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