Mom is 86 and has been in Assisted Living for 5 months. They manage her medications, bathe and dress her, and transport her to meals in her wheelchair. I selected a facility that has top of the line aesthetics, a great apartment layout, beautiful grounds, and a good ratio of male and female residents. The field trips are good, I have accompanied her on several. The Activities Director, AL Director, General Manager have all worked with her to encourage her to avail herself of the amenities and activities. Mom says she is not interested in anything they have there and just wants to lie on her couch and watch TV. As we blow through the money each month, I wonder if I should move her to a place that costs 2000 a month less but looks somewhat worn and dreary since she just wants to stay in her room all the time. I have researched several places and interviewed residents so I have a pretty good feel for the level and quality of care she would receive at other places and am sure they are adequate for her needs.
When my parents first moved in I would try to get them to use the van provided for them, go to some events, appreciate the movie theater available to them, the nice grounds, exercise classes.. etc. Every month I would pour over the calendar of events to see if I could get them to participate...in anything.. but to no avail. My dad just wants to "go home".
I would consider moving her and saving money if you are absolutely sure she isn't going to have a change of attitude (didn't happen for me its been 2 years and my parents still have a bad attitude and do not appreciate the amenities).
Is the other place at least clean and safe with available assistance that she will require?