A few years ago, I realized that my dad needed to move into a care facility instead of living with us. He was always depressed and he needed to be around more people his own age. It was a really difficult decision, but after we moved him into a care facility, he really blossomed. It was great to see him happy, healthy, and enjoying things on his own. This blog is here to help other people to enjoy their own lives and to care for loved ones who need special assistance. I know that with the help of assisted living, everyone can enjoy a better life.
Improving Your Loved One's Nursing Home Experience
5 Steps To Tranisiton To Memory Care
Nora Jones
Memory problems can just be a normal part of growing older, but they can also be indicative of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Sadly, some people will eventually be diagnosed with one of the forms of dementia. While most families will try to care for their loved ones as long as possible, it almost always eventually becomes evident this just isn't possible. People with advancing Alzheimer's disease and associated dementia require 24-hour supervision. They will also need assistance with hygiene, toileting, dressing, eating, and taking medications. Sufferers are also prone to wandering, and this can be dangerous or even deadly. This is an overwhelming responsibility, and it is in the best interest of everyone involved for the patient to transition to a memory care facility. Here are five ways you can ensure the transition goes as smoothly as possible.
Choose The Right Facility
Picking a facility requires making a list of facilities that:
- are affordable
- will meet their medical and cognitive needs
- is clean and well-run
- has properly trained staff
- has a good staff-resident ratio
- has the appropriate living space (apartment, private room, etc.)
- has safety equipment, such as guard rails, grab bars in the bathroom, and door alarms
- offers nutritious and tasty meals
- provides housekeeping and laundry services
- oversees medical appointments
There may be other requirements specific to your loved one's needs, such as a facility that allows furniture from home or smoking in designated areas. Once you have your list, tour each one to get a feel for the one you feel would be most suitable to their needs as well as a convenient location for family members.
Help Them Get Settled
Family members should assist moving them into their room or mini-apartment just as they would help move them into any other home. Unpack belongings and ask where they would like things to go. Hang photos of family and other pictures on the wall. Put their favorite things where they can see them. In short, do everything to help them feel comfortable in their new home.
Visit Frequently
Unless staff reports that the resident becomes extremely agitated and upset after a visit, friends and family members should visit as often as possible. This will help avoid any feelings of depression and abandonment as well as support their memory needs by seeing familiar faces and reliving memories.
Encourage Participating In Social Activities
Help your loved one combat loneliness and depression by encouraging them to participate in the different group activities available at the facility. They may offer a painting or pottery class or have a knitting group. Activities they have never done before are also good; learning a new skill is good for their brain. If they are still able, take them on shopping trips or to church services occasionally.
Volunteer At The Facility
Try to make time to volunteer your services each week. This could be running a small group, reading a story, or helping assist in the kitchen. This will give you more piece of mind that the residents are being well-cared for, and it will also make your loved one feel like you want to be a part of their new community as well.
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