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When a loved one’s memory declines, family members must come together and decide how to care for this person. A memory care community serves as the best option for many individuals, as they receive care around the clock. However, making this move can be difficult for the loved one. Experts offer the following tips to make the process easier for all parties involved.
As the loved one’s memory is failing, family members may need to remind them repeatedly that they are moving to a new place. Consistency remains key when sharing this information, so all family members should come together and develop a script they can use when speaking to the senior. A straightforward, reassuring message comforts the loved one and reduces disorientation.
Avoid telling the seniors they need more help. This makes them angry. People often assume they are in denial, but that isn’t the case. They feel as if they can continue to live alone and it irritates them that others don’t believe the same. Keep repeating the agreed-upon message and the transition won’t stress the senior as much.
Before moving a senior to memory care In Tacoma WA, share information about the community with them. Use positive statements to describe what they can expect. For example, talk about the wonderful meals they will eat and the new friends they will make. Explain that family members will visit and enjoy the community with them.
Take the seniors for lunch at the community before they move in. Allow them to mingle with others and see the place. Many communities offer transition programs to make the process easier. They understand dementia care and how important it is to make the seniors feel comfortable.
On move-in day, spend time with the loved ones exploring the community, and meeting the residents. Although it may appear beneficial to help the loved one unpack, the time spent together learning about the community is more important. Encourage them to socialize with the other residents while you sit back and observe. They feel comfortable because they know you are there if they need something.
One family member may stay in the senior’s new room and unpack, but ask if staff members will help with this task. The loved one’s comfort in their new surroundings is the most important thing at this time.
The staff will take over the day-to-day care of the loved one. Share information about the senior’s likes and dislikes, their routine, their favorite meals, and more. In addition, share stories about the senior. The staff can then engage with the senior by sharing this story. In addition, they connect the loved one to other residents with similar interests. When staff members have this background information, they smooth the transition.
Family members need to visit the seniors regularly during the transition period. Some families worry regular visits may make the seniors homesick. Although it is hard to leave a loved one, particularly when they don’t seem to adjust well to the transition, families should visit and share positive messages about the community and take part in family activities. The loved ones won’t feel as if they are being abandoned and they’ll take encouragement from the fact the family seems to enjoy visiting them at their new home. This encourages them to get involved and take part in activities within the memory care community.
Families need to acknowledge the emotions the senior is experiencing because of this transition. However, family members must realize they will have their own emotions with this move. It’s hard to move a loved one away, but sometimes it is the best option for that person. Don’t feel as if the senior is being abandoned. They are in a community where they can receive the best care possible.
When a family member needs memory care, research different communities to find the one that is best for their needs. With the right care, this individual will thrive and have a higher quality of life. The right community is the best solution for all when dealing with this challenging situation. Using these tips, the family can make this move better for all involved.
Pioneer Place offers individualized person-centered care for residents. The focus remains on maintaining the strengths of each resident while making their life experiences part of their daily activities. Staff members continuously observe the residents and adapt to their changing needs to promote successful outcomes.