When a senior loved one, such as a parent or other beloved relative, has been diagnosed with dementia, it can be hard coming to terms with the idea that they might need to move to a memory care community. Drawing that conclusion can be very difficult and probably requires a lot of discussion among close family. Talking these things through is important, as there are many factors that need to be considered.
For example, you will likely need to discuss the cost of the memory care community in Macomb. There is also the need for creating a potential timeline for moving forward. Also keep in mind that not each community is one size fits all, so you will need to take different amenities into consideration as well.
Doing all of this while striking a delicate balance with your senior loved one can be very tough. We have a little advice that might help, though:
Starting the Conversation
As to be expected, starting the conversation can actually be one of the hardest parts of the whole process. The last thing you want is to accidentally make your senior loved one feel as though they are a burden or that you don’t want to be around them anymore. This is especially true for someone who has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. While there is no magic wand you can wave to make the conversation perfect, there are a few tips that can help you begin.
Start Off Slow
It is very important to ease into the idea of memory care. Start by addressing their overall health and wellbeing in general. If they have been exhibiting any concerning behaviors, such as self neglect or forgetting to take their medications, mention that. If they have never been officially diagnosed by a doctor, suggest maybe visiting their primary care physician together.
Be Kind Yet Firm
Odds are high that your senior loved one is not going to be immediately receptive to the idea. After all, try putting yourself in their shoes. Admitting that you might have a problem or that your health is changing can be very difficult to come to terms with. Talking with them will require tact as well as a gentle hand. Be prepared to be persistent, as this conversation will probably unfold over some amount of time.
Value Their Input
Above all else, a conversation is not a one way street. Talking requires two or more parties to not only talk, but listen. If your senior has fears or concerns about moving to a memory care community in Macomb, hear them out. There is a lot of stigma and myths surrounding senior care communities in general. It is imperative that you put their mind at ease and validate their feelings. This will really help them to understand that you care.
Work as a Team
If the senior loved one you are concerned about is a parent or grandparent, it is likely that several people are going to be involved in the process. If you have any siblings, make sure you work together as a team to create a plan for your senior. Not only will this help to ensure that everyone is on the same page, but it will also take some of the weight off your shoulders. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone!
If you haven’t yet, make sure to figure out a few of the legal necessities. For example, you need to know who has medical power of attorney for your loved one. Also, look into insurance and come up with an initial plan for how to pay for memory care. Finances can bring up a lot of concerns, so it is vital to be as transparent as possible.
Research Various Options
Once again, each senior living community is different. There are typically different levels of care offered as well as varying amenities. When researching different senior living options, keep your senior loved one in mind.
For starters, consider what activities or hobbies they enjoy. Then, take a look at the activity calendar offered at that community. Is there any overlap? Does the calendar offer things that your loved one might enjoy? If not, right out of the gate, you can probably determine that that facility won’t be a good fit.
Another good example would be if your loved one had a pet that they treasured, you would want to find a pet friendly community. Separating them from their beloved dog or cat that brings them so much joy and companionship would be so heartbreaking. Here at The Parkdale, we are proud to be a pet friendly community!
After the Move
Once your senior loved one has gotten moved into our memory care community in Macomb, make sure that they feel right at home! One of the best ways to ease the transition is to provide some of their favorite comfort items. If they have a quilt they always use on their bed or have treasured family photos they want to hang up, bring those along with the move. This is their new home and it should feel like one.
Also, be sure to stay in touch with your senior loved one. The move can be a little scary or overwhelming, and you want to make sure they don’t ever feel forgotten or left behind. Schedule visits as often as possible, especially right at the beginning. Make sure to also call and send cards or letters. Having something tangible to hold in their hands will be a great reminder of just how loved that they are.
Check Out The Parkdale
Here at our memory care community in Macomb, we understand just how important it is for our residents to feel comfortable and cared for. That is why we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment. We also offer a huge host of amenities and activities to provide the highest quality of life for our seniors. Our staff is also knowledgeable, diligent, and caring.
If you are interested in taking a tour of our facility or learning more about what we offer, contact us today! We want The Parkdale to be the perfect new home for your senior loved one.
