Finding the Right Dementia Care: A Journey from Switzerland to Thailand
A real story of finding dementia care in Thailand. Discover how a Swiss family chose Vivobene for long-term care and saw meaningful improvement in quality of life.
Caring for His Father on His Own
For Armand Meyer, known as Mandy Meyer, a retired professional musician from Switzerland, the decision to find the right long-term dementia care for his father was never simple.
As an only child, his relationship with his father had always been deeply personal, shaped by years of closeness and shared life. As dementia began to take hold, that bond gradually became a responsibility he carried on his own.
“At some point, I realized I couldn’t give him what he truly needed on my own.”
He moved in with his father and spent a year managing daily life together, providing hands-on support and care. But as the condition progressed, the demands of daily dementia care became increasingly difficult to sustain alone.
Limited Dementia Care Options in Switzerland
The search for suitable care across Switzerland brought more uncertainty than solutions. From Central Switzerland to Zurich and the Bernese Oberland, options for long-term dementia care were limited and often unavailable.
Waiting lists stretched up to two or even three years, making timely support nearly impossible. Even when a place became available, there was no guarantee it would be close to home or in a familiar environment.
For Mandy, this raised a deeper concern. It was not only about finding a nursing home, but finding a place where his father could feel comfortable, supported, and at ease.
Why Thailand Became the Answer
The idea of Thailand came through a recommendation. At first, it felt unexpected, but it quickly began to make sense.
His father had visited before and felt comfortable there. The warmer climate suited him well, and the slower pace of life felt right. What started as a distant option became a serious consideration after discovering Vivobene, a Swiss-standard nursing care residence in Chiang Mai.
Rather than deciding immediately, they chose to experience it first. They came to Thailand for a trial stay to understand the environment, the daily routine, and the level of care.
That experience gave them the confidence to move forward.
How Daily Life Improved His Health
Vivobene did not feel like a traditional care home. It felt open, active, and human, offering a different approach to dementia care.
Residents follow structured days filled with movement, social interaction, and meaningful routines. From morning exercises to creative workshops and shared activities, life continues with purpose.
“Here, he is not alone. He eats better, he moves more, and he is simply doing better. In many ways, he is now more active and engaged than he had been in recent years.”
In less than two years, the results are clear. His father is physically stronger, more engaged, and living with a rhythm that supports both health and wellbeing, showing how the right long-term care environment can make a meaningful difference.
Relief Through the Right Care
The greatest change is not only in his father, but also in himself.
Knowing his father is supported by a professional and attentive team brings a sense of reassurance that was once missing. Care is no longer a constant worry, but something he can rely on with confidence.
For Armand Meyer, what stood out at Vivobene was how his father stayed active and engaged each day.
He appreciated the variety of activities, from gentle yoga sessions to daily routines that encouraged movement and social interaction. These moments were not just part of the schedule, but part of how life continued.
“I really like it here. I can even imagine this being a place for me one day.”
If you are exploring dementia care or nursing home options in Thailand for a loved one, our team is here to guide you with clarity and care.
We are here to guide you through the decision.
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