Do you have a loved one who is affected with some type of memory related/cognitive condition? If so, chances are, it will get worse rather than better. Caring for them will become more difficult and consume more of your personal life as the disease progresses.
It could be time to have a serious conversation about memory care with your loved one. This is seldom a pleasant thought but it can go a bit better with the right approach and by keeping the following advice in mind.
Family Members and Siblings Should Show Their Support
This is the time for families to unite and support each other. If a decision can’t be made as to whether or not your loved one needs memory care, here are some things to work on.
- Active listening is not only a gift, but necessary right now. Here are some active listening features:
- Be curious and ask questions.
- Uses statements with the word “I” in them (relating to how you feel).
- Ask for clarification when in doubt. Paraphrase what you’ve heard to make sure you have it right.
- Use validation.
- Seek an outside opinion that is credible and knowledgeable.
- Detail the experiences of the primary caregiver.
Memory Care Communities – Take a Tour
The best method of figuring out if a memory care community is a good fit for you and your loved one is to take a tour. While you don’t have to tour every community in the general area, narrow it down to a couple and go from there.
Conversation Participants – Who Should Participate?
Though the entire family probably needs to be in on this decision, the person in question may feel overwhelmed or defensive if a large group participates. The right approach will vary depending on the person, but here are some pointers:
- A one-on-one conversation may be best if safety risks, wandering, etc. are hurrying the decision for memory care. The whole family may not have time to get together.
- Consider including your loved one’s doctor if they deny their symptoms or are hostile about their diagnosis.
- A one-on-one discussion may work better for those who are particularly sensitive about their symptoms of dementia.
- If a particular family member has a close relationship with your loved one, it may behoove you to include this person in the discussion.
Choose the Right Place, Time, and Setting
To be successful, lay the right groundwork. Here are a few suggestions:
- Use supportive visual cues and body language.
- Maintain the privacy and comfort level of your family member/loved one.
- Choose a good time of day during which to have the conversation.
Stay Consistent in the Way You Talk about Memory Care
The situation will only be aggravated, and people will become more confused, if the tone you use during any conversation is inconsistent. Focus on quality-of-life issues, safety, and socialization. Keep it conversational. Here are some more tips to remember during your conversation:
- Focus on memory care benefits.
- Remind the person they will have access to numerous socialization opportunities, delicious snacks and meals, housekeeping, etc.
- Rather than talking about “forever”, talk about right now.
- You’re not the bad guy – don’t feel like it or make yourself out to be one.
- If your parent is having a hard time with this and resists, try to put yourself in their shoes. This could take some time and several conversations.
Is It Time for a Conversation about Memory Care?
Our SHINE Memory Care program offers your loved one in need of memory care the chance to get the assistance they require while having the chance to live as independently as possible. You’ll be able to sleep better at night, with complete peace of mind, knowing your loved one is getting the attention, treatment, and special care they need to live a productive, happy life.
To learn more about our Memory Care Community, there are several ways to reach us. General inquiries can be directed to 219-764-2900. For sales and leasing inquiries regarding our residences, please call 219-207-7185. If you’d like, you can fill out and send in our convenient online form. We’ll get back to you ASAP.
To view everything we have to offer and speak to our team members one-on-one, schedule a tour today. We look forward to meeting you.
