Moving parents into memory care represents a significant change in family life. Often, family members need clarification on their role or how much they can or should be involved in providing care and support to their parents. Initially, the recommendation is that family members hold off on visits to give their loved ones time to adjust to their new environment and settle into new routines. However, following the initial transition, consistent family involvement is strongly encouraged.
Buckner Villas is a faith-based nonprofit senior living community in Austin, TX. Through our years of experience in providing senior memory care services, we understand the challenges families face when a parent or other loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. In addition to providing high-quality care for our residents, we are committed to supporting families.
Call 512.580.9882 to talk with an admissions counselor about memory care services.
Recognizing the Need for Memory Care
Recognizing the need for memory care can be a complex process, as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia affect everyone differently. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, it’s generally beneficial to consider the move earlier. This way, the transition can be smoother, and your loved one can actively participate in decision-making.
Primary care physicians or other professionals involved in your loved one’s care can help you identify when professional memory care is needed. Signs you can watch for include:
- Needing assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Weight loss
- Worsening health conditions
- An increase in accidents, falls, or “close calls”
- Difficulty driving
- Losing track of time or getting lost
- Increased isolation
- Forgetting important things, like taking medication or paying bills
If your loved one is living alone, pay attention to how much or little food they have, if food is expired, if houseplants are watered, and if pets are adequately cared for. Also, consider the state of the home. Excessive clutter, piles of unopened mail, or general untidiness may indicate that your loved one needs help with these tasks.
How to Stay Connected with Your Parents in Memory Care
If parents or other loved ones have transitioned into memory care, staying connected may feel challenging. However, maintaining connections is essential to their mental and physical well-being and peace of mind.
Distance and time constraints are two of the most significant issues family members identify as barriers to maintaining strong connections. Luckily, today’s technology makes it easy to stay in touch via phone calls, texts, video calls, Zoom, and more. For those who need it, staff can help residents work cell phones, tablets, or computers.
While staying connected via technology is excellent, in-person visits are ideal as much as possible. Memory care programs offer a range of programs and amenities that invite family involvement. In addition to program participation, other ways to maintain strong connections include:
- Maintaining communication with program staff
- Participating in care plan meetings or conferences
- Joining parents at mealtimes
- Sending or leaving cards or letters they can read when you’re not there
- Celebrating birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions
- Reminiscing over family memories or photos
When possible, take your parent or loved one to a local restaurant; go shopping; take advantage of local attractions like parks, zoos, or museums; or go for a drive. Time spent outdoors can invigorate the mind and spirit. At Buckner Villas, memory care residents have access to countless amenities within our community and all that Austin has to offer.
Call Today to Talk to an Admissions Counselor about Senior Memory Care at Buckner Villas
Moving a loved one into memory care marks a significant change, but it is one full of possibilities. At Buckner Villas, memory care residents live in a secure, safe, home-like environment with access to 24-hour care. Our low staff-to-resident ratios help ensure that your loved one receives personalized care from highly knowledgeable staff who are passionate about their work.
Call 512.580.9882 to talk with an admissions counselor about our memory care program and how we help family members maintain meaningful connections with their loved ones in our care. You can also complete our online form to get started.