A Difficult Decision
When I boarded a flight from Vienna to Thailand with my mother in May last year, I did not know whether I was doing the right thing.
My mother had previously been diagnosed with depression and dementia. She could barely walk, spoke very little, and often seemed confused. For more than two years, we had consulted numerous doctors, always hoping for help. But instead of real improvement, she was prescribed more and more medication. The amount of psychotropic drugs steadily increased, while her condition continued to deteriorate.
Despite all my doubts, I felt deep inside that I had to take this step with her. I wanted to give my mother one more chance — a chance for dignity, for proper care, and perhaps even for a renewed sense of joy in life.
Searching for the Right Place
When we arrived in Thailand, we first visited a house with around twenty residents. But the moment we stepped inside, my heart sank. The building was dark, narrow, and felt oppressive. It was clear that this place was not right for my mother.
So we continued our journey.
During the drive to Vivobene, I felt a quiet but unmistakable sense of hope rising within me — as if something was telling me we were on the right path.
First Impressions of Vivobene
As we entered the driveway, we saw a welcoming reception house. In front of it stood large amphorae, with water gently flowing in soft arcs into a basin below. Around us were images of the Swiss mountains.
At that moment, we were both deeply moved. My mother had grown up in Switzerland, and I now live there. The familiarity, combined with the peaceful setting, created an immediate sense of comfort.
Within minutes, my mother had already made her decision. We were welcomed in Swiss German, guided to the terrace, and shortly after, traditional Swiss dishes were served — Rösti and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes.
At that moment, we both knew: this is the right place. The very next day, my mother moved into Vivobene.
A Turning Point in Care
My doubts quickly faded as I observed how respectfully and warmly residents were treated. Although I could only stay for four days before returning to Europe, one important conversation made all the difference.
The medical team explained openly that my mother had most likely been overmedicated. Her medication was carefully reviewed and significantly reduced. At the same time, contact was established with a physician at Bangkok Hospital to ensure proper ongoing medical care.
This gave me the reassurance I needed to leave, even though it was emotionally difficult as her daughter.
A Transformation We Never Expected
What happened next was something neither of us could have imagined.
Within just three months, a transformation took place that felt almost like a miracle. My mother became mentally clearer. She started speaking again, regained her ability to walk, and slowly recovered her independence in daily life.
The attentive care, the constant human presence, and carefully adjusted medical treatment — supported by a highly competent neurologist at Bangkok Hospital — helped her regain strength and joy in life. Her depression was treated with minimal and targeted medication.
One Year Later
Today, one year later, my mother is doing so well that she could theoretically live independently again.
However, she has built strong friendships and meaningful connections at Vivobene. For this reason, she has chosen to stay and not return to Vienna.
Looking back, one important realization became clear: My mother was never suffering from dementia.
A New Purpose
This experience has profoundly changed my life. It showed me how crucial the right environment, human warmth, and thoughtful medical care are for older people.
From this, a new purpose emerged.
Today, I support individuals and their families who wish to take a similar step — from organizing travel and coordinating medical clarifications to providing personal support throughout the journey. If needed, I also stay for a few days to ensure a smooth and reassuring transition.
My mission is simple: To give people hope — and to show that it is sometimes possible to begin an entirely new chapter in life.
Sometimes, all it takes is the courage to take a new path.
For my mother, that path began with a journey to Thailand — and led her back to life.
If you would like to learn more about Vivobene or speak with our team, feel free to contact us.
Author
Isabel Elyonor Hensler
Married | 4 Adult children | Swiss woman
English Version 
