VISIT YOUR LOVED ONE IN A MEMORY CARE FACILITY

Alzheimer’s can be a devastating disease. While you do your best to care for your loved ones, sometimes it might be time to transfer them to a memory care facility.

It’s difficult and delicate, but it’s essential to enjoy your time with your loved one. These are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to a memory care facility.

Tips When Visiting Your Loved One In A Memory Care Facility

A gift is a great way of spending time with someone you care about and to show your appreciation. Sometimes it can be difficult to choose what gift to give someone with dementia.

Make a photo album that reflects your life together. You can bring a game of cards or a puzzle to play together during your visit. It’s all about being creative and thinking outside the box.

Be Patient

Many memory care facilities advise that residents not visit for at least the first week. Because the nurses and aides must spend time helping the residents adjust to their new surroundings, this is a common recommendation. Remember to be patient when you arrive for your first visit.

It may be more difficult for them to recognize you than ever before. Take it slow and identify yourself. Even if your loved one doesn’t cognitively understand it, it is a difficult time.

You may also find it difficult. This experience can bring out many emotions. Give yourself permission to feel the emotions you are experiencing and be patient.

Take a special home-made lunch

Sometimes, dementia patients can have difficulty eating as they age. Seniors with dementia may face different nutritional challenges when moving into a new facility.

Plan a special lunch for your guests if you are planning to visit. You can think of something they enjoy eating that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.

Bring Familiar Items

When working with someone with Alzheimer’s, consistency is important. Bring a few familiar items to your loved one’s next visit.

You could add songs to your phone, one of their favourite music playlists, a book that they enjoy reading, or even your pet. This will help them feel at home in their new environment.

Plan Ahead For Activities

It is important to plan activities ahead of your visit. Memory care facilities often offer a variety of activities for residents throughout the day. This is a great way for residents to interact with each other and to have fun.

Check out the upcoming classes and activities. You might find them taking walks in the community, reading books, or participating in art classes. You’ll get a better idea of their daily lives as residents.

Learn the Rules of the Facility

Each facility is unique and each has its own rules. Respect is an important aspect of your visit to these facilities.

COVID-19 is a major concern for today’s facilities. High-risk residents such as elderly people are subject to certain protocols, including wearing masks and visitor restrictions.

Talk to nurses, aides and other staff members to learn their policies. You will be able to make the most of your visit with your loved one.

It can be hard to be away from someone you love. Keep it brief and sweet when visiting a memory care facility in Myrtle Beach. Keep in mind that your loved ones are adapting to a new environment, daily routine and medication regimen.

They may feel tired and want to sleep more often. You should allow them to take the rest they need by keeping visits to a maximum of an hour.

It can be difficult to love someone with dementia. Even more difficult is when they have to be moved into a new place.

You can make the most of your memory care visit by being prepared, patient, and keeping it short. You’ll gain a better understanding of the community over time and your loved ones will be more comfortable with their surroundings.

Call Reflections Assisted Living now if you’re looking for the best facility for your loved one.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

SIGNS TO START TALKING ABOUT ASSISTED LIVING

Although medical advances have made it possible for people to live longer and more healthily, there are still times when living alone isn’t an option. Seniors may be reluctant to discuss the possibility of moving away from their loved ones and staying in an assisted living facility.

It is not something that any family likes to face when assisted living is necessary. There are signs you can look out for to help you make the right decision.

Here are some resources to help you if you’re worried about your loved ones not being able to care for themselves properly on their own, or if you’re a caregiver and feel it is time to make a change.

Indicators that assisted living might be right for you

1. Chronic Health Problems

As people age, chronic health conditions can worsen. They can also make it more difficult to stay healthy and fall ill more frequently. You may need 24-hour care if your loved one is in pain.

2. Aggressiveness

Unfortunately, some dementia patients will become more aggressive with age. This is not due to how the person is being cared for but a result of the disease.

It is difficult to take care of someone who is verbally and physically abusive. Aggressive individuals need to be able to live safely with professionals who are trained to handle these situations.

3. Recent Falls

Falls are another sign that assisted living in Myrtle Beach may be necessary. Mobility problems are common among seniors, and there are many places in the home where they could trip.

It is possible to consider assisted living if your loved one has recently fallen and you are concerned that they might not be able to get up, or call for help.

4. Not taking your medicine

Everybody forgets to take their medication every now and again. However, if this happens often it can quickly become a problem.

It is important to follow their medication regimens in order to maintain good health. Although there are many systems that can help them remember, this is a clear indication that it is time to move to memory care.

5. Unable to handle daily life activities

Sometimes, even the simplest tasks can become overwhelming. It may be time to make a change if a family member is having trouble with chores like cooking or housework.

Yard work can be a difficult job and often becomes their first task. Do not let them be burdened by too much work. You can help them relax and have fun in their last years.

6. Sadness and isolation

Seniors may find it difficult to continue driving. They feel isolated and lonely as a result.

Moving to an assisted living facility may be a good idea if your loved one is suffering from depression or feeling isolated. You will have the opportunity to interact with others and take part in a variety of activities. They might just find what they are looking for!

7. Poor Eating Habits

People who are unable to cook will most likely have a decline in their eating habits.

For good mental and physical health, it is essential to eat well. They will receive nutritious and regular meals that are tailored to their needs when they move into a long-term care facility.

These tips will help you choose the best assisted living facility for you.

8. Poor Hygiene

Personal hygiene is a must for anyone who has dementia or feels ill. They may not bathe as often or as well as they might not do as much as they should.

It is time to think about assisted living facilities when someone becomes unable to take care of their basic needs.

9. Stress for caregivers

Perhaps you feel overwhelmed by all the work involved and just don’t have the time. People who choose to care for family members do so with great love.

Many people aren’t prepared for the emotional and physical challenges that lie ahead. It is okay to admit that you did not do the best, but it is time to change your course.

10. Sundowning

Sundowner’s syndrome refers to a condition in which a person with dementia becomes more anxious at the end. They are exhausted from all of their mental energy.

This could be the reason why evenings can become extremely stressful. This could also indicate that they are becoming dependent on others.

11. Wandering Off

You are likely to be afraid that your loved one will wander off if they live alone.

This is a legitimate fear that happens all the time. They might think they know where they’re going but end up getting lost. They might just want to get outside the house.

Whatever the case, don’t wait until something troubling happens to you. You need to act now.

Everybody wants to spend their last years in their own home. It can be difficult to accept that this may not be possible.

These signs could indicate that it is time to consider assisted living for your loved one. There are many beautiful facilities available with well-trained staff who will be happy to help you.

To learn more about how we can assist you in this difficult time, call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

 

IS IT TIME TO TRANSITION FROM INDEPENDENT TO ASSISTED LIVING?

Aging is more art than science. As we age, each person experiences a unique aging process and may be faced with different health issues. It can be difficult to navigate health care decisions later in your life. It may be difficult to determine when it is time to transition from independent living to assisted living.

Independent Living vs. Independent Living vs. Assisted Living

Independent living facilities are for seniors who are still able to care for themselves. These communities offer “planned social activities, exercise options, group travel options,” as well as other activities that promote “mental and physical engagement to improve general wellness and quality life as people age.”

“Assisted living facilities” are, in contrast, designed to ease the burden of daily tasks for people with different health or life circumstances.

Assisted living communities are for seniors who are not sufficiently sick to be admitted to a hospital or nursing home, but have chronic medical conditions that require monitoring.

Many residents require assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing and housekeeping. Residents are usually served meals in communal dining rooms where they can socialize and interact.

A shared or private room may be available to residents of assisted living facilities. The location and type of resident served by the facility will determine the amenities and services available.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were at least 28900 residential care communities and assisted living facilities in operation in the United States. There are many types of assisted living facilities that can be found in the United States. They offer a variety of services to assist older adults with daily tasks.

Costs for Senior Living

The price of assisted living can also vary greatly. The median annual cost of an assisted living community was $54,000. Skilled nursing in a private area will cost you an average of $934 per month. This adds up to more that $108,400 annually.

A few facilities charge a flat-sum fee for a specific menu of amenities and services. Some facilities use an a-la-carte pricing, wherein the residents are able to choose the services and amenities that they wish to use. It’s important to take into account many factors when choosing the right assisted living facility.

Before you can even begin to determine which community is the best for you, you need to decide when and if you want to make the move to an assisted living facility.

When is it time to move to assisted living?

It is difficult to determine when it is time to transition from independent living to assisted living. In some cases, friends, caregivers, or family members might be the ones to notice signs that independent living is not the best option.

Although it may be the best option for all, some people are hesitant about moving into an assisted living community. It’s complex and many people will need to take some time to get used to it.

There are several indicators that it is time to transition from independent living to assisted living.

An increase in falls, a worsening medical condition and an overall increase in frailty.

Difficulty in managing your domestic finances, or any other money issues.

A decline in one’s ability to take care of oneself and difficulty cleaning the house.

Depression and social isolation

Is assisted living appropriate for you? A senior who has recently lost their spouse and is responsible for cooking, shopping, and housekeeping is one example. After the death of a partner, a spouse who survived may have difficulty cooking or cleaning properly.

A senior may also have multiple medical issues. The discussion about when to move into assisted living is often accelerated by progressive or neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s. Seniors often require more assistance as their chronic conditions worsen.

Another common scenario is when a senior starts to show signs of memory loss. This could be an indication of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other forms of dementia. Caregivers burnout is a common problem for those caring for people with cognitive impairment.

Using assisted living facilities to help you may be able to provide respite and allow your spouse or primary caregiver to enjoy a better quality life.

Transition to assisted living

It can be difficult to move into an assisted living facility. This is especially true for older adults who have cognitive impairments such as those with Alzheimer’s disease, other forms of dementia, and other chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s and diabetes. It can be overwhelming to change routines or even uproot an entire life, at times.

Sometimes, the death of a spouse can lead to the need for an assisted living community. This can be difficult because of the grief that may accompany the move to an assisted living community.

Guilt from caregivers is another issue that can arise when they realize they are unable to handle the responsibility of caring for an elderly loved one. Guilt can be magnified if assisted living is chosen in an emergency or rush situation.

A panic situation can result from making important decisions under pressure and with high emotions. This can prevent families from making informed decisions and thoroughly researching the community.

Consult your loved ones

These situations are terrible, but they are all too common. You can alleviate many of these difficult feelings and situations by having a conversation early on and regularly discussing what is in store for your loved ones as they age. It can be hard to start a conversation. However, it is possible to approach it piece by piece and have several conversations over the course of several weeks or months.

Talking with an expert can be helpful for some families. It can be helpful to talk with an attorney, a financial advisor, or a counselor who has worked with families in these difficult situations. These professionals can offer insight, suggestions and even a benchmark for other families who have dealt with similar situations.

It is important to visit each place you are considering. You should experience the lifestyle and meet the people living there. It should feel welcoming and comfortable.

Do your Homework

Before you start the conversation, make sure to write down all your concerns and points that you wish to convey to your loved ones. You can research the options available and determine what would be a good fit. This will allow you to have some ideas in the back of your mind as the conversation progresses. Next, get started talking.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for the best community for your elderly loved one.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ASSISTED LIVING REQUIREMENTS

It is likely that your loved one will need to move into an assisted living facility soon. However, you aren’t sure what the eligibility requirements are for assisted living.

This can be overwhelming. There are many changes taking place and you might not know where to begin. We get it.

This guide will walk you through the assisted living requirements that you must know in order to be eligible to live in an assisted-living facility. It also explains what you can expect when you are admitted. Continue reading to find out more.

What are the Requirements for Assisted Living Admissions

The eligibility criteria for assisted living are determined by the care needs of each resident. Assisted living is generally appropriate for those who have the following needs:

• Rehabilitation services
• Nursing care are available for minimal charges
• Management of medication
• Help with daily tasks such as eating, bathing, and so on.
• For those who have special needs, assisted living is not the best option.
• Continuous supervision
• Medical care that is extensive
• Memory Care

Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

Daily Assistance is Necessary

You or your loved one must be able to perform at least two activities of daily living in order to be eligible to live in an assisted living facility in many states.

Daily living activities include:

• Grooming
• Bathing
• Dressing
• Making meals
• Moving from sitting down to standing, lying down to sitting, etc.
• Ambulation
• Continence Care

Simply put, assisted living residents can get a high-quality level of care. They just don’t need 24/7 monitoring.

Can I be denied admission to assisted living? Three situations where you may not meet the Assisted Living requirements

Yes, assisted living facilities can refuse admission to anyone who does not meet the criteria. This is especially true if the person concerned is unable to provide the care they are capable of providing.

What are the circumstances that allow a person to be refused admission? When the safety or health of the resident, or any other residents, could be at risk, denials may occur.

Let’s take another look.

#1: Severe memory impairments

Patients with dementia:

• Could have difficulty swallowing
• Have behavioral problems

For many reasons,…assisted living is not a good fit.

Many assisted living facilities don’t have security. Patients can wander around the facility and leave quickly.

In an assisted living facility, most people don’t require 24/7 supervision.

It is important that you have open and honest conversations with the facility when deciding whether an assisted living or memory care facility is the right choice for your loved ones with memory impairments.

#2: Medical needs that are extensive

Some medical conditions, such as extensive wound care, might prevent someone from entering an assisted-living facility.

A skilled nursing facility may be recommended for patients who are recovering from injuries or accidents.

Most assisted living communities are unable to provide proper care for patients with:

• Tracheostomies
• Feeding Tubes
• Gastrostomy care
• Staph infections

#3: Bedridden

Residents of assisted living facilities must be able (mostly) to walk independently. Some assisted living facilities have staff who can assist with transfers to and from a bed or wheelchair. However, this is not always the case.

You may not be allowed to live in assisted living if you or your loved one is physically and mentally disabled. Instead, you will be referred for skilled nursing facilities that offer 24-hour care.

4 Requirements for Assisted Living

After assessing the situation, you have concluded that assisted living is the best choice for you.

What happens if you or your loved one meet the requirements for assisted living?

#1: Agreements & Forms

After meeting with your facility admissions coordinator, you will begin gathering forms and signing agreements. Then you can prepare to move in. They will most likely include:

• Applications for admission
• Consent to release any medical information
• Policies for facilities
• Legal certificates
• Care information and costs

This paperwork can usually be completed by admissions coordinators before or on admission day. Each form will be signed by you or your loved one.

The admissions coordinator will also gather information about insurance and determine whether assisted living is covered by the insurance. The facility will need verification of all insurance coverages.

#2: Medical History

The admissions coordinator will review your medical history before you are admitted to the assisted living facility in Myrtle Beach.

#3: Assessments

A variety of assessments are done upon admission to determine the best care plan for you or your loved ones.

These assessments could include:

• Assessment of the level of care — How much assistance is required?
• Management of medication — Does a nurse have to administer medications or can the resident take control of their medications?
• Assessment of mental condition — Does the resident experience dementia or confusion?
• ADL evaluation – What daily living activities can the resident perform? What activities can he/she do that he/she cannot? This can be reassessed up to six times per year.
• Sensory assessments — This usually includes vision and hearing

#4: Care Plan Created

After the assessments are completed, assisted living facilities work with your physician (or your loved ones) to develop a care plan that suits your needs.

Every care plan is composed of:

• A first health assessment
• Regularly updated health assessments

Each individual care plan can also include:

• What kind of medicine is required?
• How often do you need medical assistance?
• Type of diet and food preferences
• Activities
• Supplies or equipment required
• Other Preferences — book preferences, mealtimes and bedtimes.
• Personal Goals

Are You Trying to Find an Assisted Living Facility?

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is committed to helping our residents maintain their independence and stability while providing positive experiences for them every day.

We tailor our services and care plans to meet each person’s individual needs. Each nurse, caregiver and team member will provide the highest level of customer service.

Our team is available 24 hours a day to meet your needs. We are here to make your home a home.

Our assisted living communities provide a homelike, nurturing environment for residents. They also offer support when it’s needed.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for the best community for your home.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

BENEFITS OF ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES

Your loved one is your best friend. It can be difficult to decide if they need more support than you can offer. If you are struggling to provide the necessary care for your parents, assisted living facilities may be a viable option.

Studies show that approximately 7 out of 10 Americans 65 and older will require long-term care. Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is an assisted living facility that provides personal care and support for seniors who want to maintain their independence but still need assistance in daily activities. Moving to assisted living can seem daunting or overwhelming for caregivers.

Benefits Of Assisted Living Facilities

Personalized care

Each resident’s unique experiences, health needs and preferences are what assisted living facilities emphasize. The staff of assisted living facilities get to know each resident and create the best environment for them. It may include 24-hour nursing, medication administration or mood and behavior monitoring. This is a holistic approach to senior care.

Assistance with everyday activities

As residents of assisted living facilities can be independent in many ways, the level and type of support required will vary from one person to another. As they age, your loved one may require assistance with daily activities such as housekeeping, transport, hygiene, dressing, laundry, and bathing. This is where assisted living facilities come in. The staff provides dignity-preserving, respectful assistance. Maybe your loved one requires assistance with walking, memory loss, respite care or other support. There are assisted living communities that can help your loved one, whether they need it regularly or in an emergency.

Security and safety

Safety is a top priority for you as a caregiver. It’s time for assisted living facilities to be considered if driving becomes dangerous or you are concerned about your loved one’s safety when cooking at home. Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is a safe community.

Engagement and social activities

Researchers at Harvard School of Public Health found that memory loss in older Americans may be slower for those who have an active social life. Regular social interaction can prevent isolation and depression, and increase the quality of life. Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is never dull. We offer a variety of activities for the mind and body, including weekly, daily, and monthly. Your loved one will enjoy a mix of social activities like book clubs and weekly socials or participate in art therapy and gardening–life-enriching activities that reflect their interests, satisfy their wellness objectives and promote lasting friendships and relationships with staff and fellow residents.

Easy Access to healthcare facilities

As your loved one gets older, you might need 24-hour nursing care. The assisted living facility offers quality healthcare, with an aging well model that considers the whole person, including their physical, mental and overall health.

A homey, comfortable setting

The goal is to make your loved one’s life peaceful and nurturing. The assisted living community for your loved one should feel like home. The ideal assisted living facility is calm and comfortable, with access to outdoor and communal spaces. You may be able to offer your loved ones many of the same amenities and luxuries as they would have at home. This includes chapel services, a business center and a beauty salon.

Fun and independence

Advanced personal care can be provided in assisted living. However, your loved one does not necessarily have to use them if they do not require them. Assisted living allows your loved ones to be independent and has many amenities that will make their lives easier and more secure. Your parent may be at an age where they no longer want to live in a large house. You may find comfort in the many services offered by assisted living communities for your parent as they age. Assistive living is a way to live independently, but it’s not the same as a nursing home. Your loved one can live in independence with their mental and physical abilities while being surrounded by a supportive, caring assisted living community.

Enjoy more time

Your loved one can move to assisted living without having to worry about housework and maintenance. All of these tasks are gone. As seniors age, assisted living can be a great option.

Options for nutrition and dining

Assisted living meals are specifically designed for seniors’ nutrition and health. Executive chefs are skilled at creating delicious, nutritious meals. It’s hard to beat the dining experience.

Peace of Mind

Research shows that stress can affect family caregivers for as long as 10 years. Are you a caregiver and have you ever felt depressed, stressed out, had poor eating habits, financial strain, or health problems? The greatest benefit of assisted living, however, is peace of mind. You can live your life and not worry about your loved one’s care. Your loved one will be safe and well taken care of in a home with staff and residents who are available to meet their every need. Your loved one will feel the same peace of mind.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for the best community for your loved one.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

HOW TO CONVINCE YOUR PARENT TO MOVE TO ASSISTED LIVING

Most people want to live in their own homes for as long as possible. This is how many of our older relatives feel. However, it may not be in their best interest to do so. What can we do to talk to them about the dangers and realities of remaining at home when their functional and/or health abilities are declining? What can we do to convince them of the benefits of assisted living?

The Difference Between Aging in Place and Assisted Living

Some seniors can remain safely at home with professional in-home assistance and a medical alarm system. If they are living alone, or their spouse becomes frail, there is no one who can help them in an emergency. While the familiarity and comforts that come with home are undisputed, there are also some drawbacks to aging at home.

As it becomes harder to leave the home and as friends have mobility problems, elders may find fewer opportunities to meet new people. Some seniors might stop doing household chores like cleaning, cooking and washing laundry. Seniors with cognitive impairment are particularly vulnerable to fraud, forgetting to shut off the kitchen, or even self-neglect.

Seniors who are able to make home modifications and have access to a strong support network and can be realistic about their abilities and health may consider aging in place. Many older adults are not aware of their changing needs and fail to prepare for them. Many older adults may not find the home they have chosen for their final years to be suitable or safe. Their family caregivers often have to run roughshod trying to protect their well-being and keep them safe while also managing their lives.

Many family caregivers see the advantages of assisted living as a way to help their loved ones. All signs indicate that Dad and Mom need it. Your current caregiver duties will only increase as your loved ones age. How do you convince them to consider assisted living? These tips will help your loved one see that assisted living facilities offer the support services they require to be safe, happy and healthy.

Ten Tips to Help a Parent Move to Assisted Living

Place the seed

Do not approach loved ones as if you have already decided for them. Talking to your parents about senior living options and assisted living is a good idea. You can simply tell your parents that there may be other options available to make their lives easier, more comfortable, and safer.

Do your research

The next step is to research nearby assisted living communities and invite them along for a tour. But don’t push it. If they are resistant, you can drop the topic and wait until another day for this step.

You should wait for the “teachable moment”, to appear

Is Mom okay? That can be used as a springboard. You can decide whether to bring up assisted living right away or wait for a while. Perhaps you’ll say, “Wow! That was close.” It was certainly a frightening experience. We might be able to go see the assisted living facility across town once you feel better. We would both be happier if we had someone to help us in the event of something similar. You can trust your instincts about the timing of this event, but you should use it as an opportunity for your loved one to face reality.

For referrals, ask

To find out if someone you know is thriving in an assisted living facility, ask around. It’s a good way to get objective information and narrow your search. Even better, find ALFs where your parents’ friends have already relocated. Your parent will feel much more comfortable if they have a familiar face, just like when you first looked for friends–any kind of friend–in your school class.

Tours available

You can take your parents to an assisted living facility. Demonstrate the positive aspects of ALFs. Don’t make it a big deal and try not to force the subject. If possible, tour more than one and get feedback from your parents. Are they more comfortable in a smaller community? Do they prefer a modern, contemporary style or a more traditional, cozy facility? What was their favorite restaurant’s cuisine? What is the best schedule for outings and activities?

Be sure to highlight the advantages.

Assisted living gives seniors the opportunity to focus on what they really enjoy, and to forget about daily chores. Although there is no need to do any yardwork, they offer gardening services. There are meals available in the dining area, and some apartments have kitchenettes that allow seniors to cook their own meals. You have plenty of space to roam, and there is always someone nearby. Your loved one is the best person you can know, so highlight what they will enjoy.

Allow it to sink in.

Allow your loved one to take some time to think about their present situation and how it may affect their health in the future. Also, reflect upon the information you’ve given them and tour the communities. It is an important decision and requires thoughtful thought.

Schedule a family gathering.

If you have a close family, meet up with them for a casual conversation and let your mom or dad know how great it would be if they made the move. Do not make the move seem forced or pre-arranged. Discuss the situation with everyone concerned and discuss any concerns or fears about moving. Ask a friend, or a doctor to meet with you and discuss the reasons for your move. Sometimes third parties are able to make a difference where the family is failing.

You can’t reason with dementia

Noting the fact that some loved ones with cognitive impairment may not be able to recognize their limits, they might still want to stay at home. There is no one-size fits all solution for moving a dementia patient to assisted living. There is no way to convince someone suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia that they will change their minds. While dementia caregivers may resort to pushing the issue in order to make sure their loved ones are safe, well-cared for and happy, the reality is you can’t force seniors to go to assisted living unless the senior is deemed incapable. A power of attorney or guardianship is often required to put an incompetent loved one into the right long-term care environment.

Be patient.

Don’t press unless you are certain that your loved one needs to be placed in an assisted living facility urgently. Try to give your parents the feeling that they have control over their lives. There is nothing you can do if a senior cannot make their own decisions regarding their care. Many caregivers have to wait until a senior is able to decide for themselves.

Transferring elderly parents to assisted living

For some seniors, this whole process may be difficult. Even for those who want to live in assisted living community, it is difficult to leave a home filled with memories. It is also an emotionally charged decision. Try to be kind and sensitive, and make the transition about your parents and not you. While it will be a while before your mom or dad can settle into their new house, they should enjoy the transition.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now and let us help if you’re looking for the best facility for your aging parent.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

ESSENTIAL STEPS WHEN YOUR PARENTS REQUIRE ASSISTED LIVING

Assisted living communities are a popular choice for families looking to provide care and peace of mind for their aging parents. Finding the right senior living community for your parents is not an easy task. It requires that you match their needs with their lifestyle and budget. It is easier and more successful when everyone involved is prepared, asks the right questions and engages in honest, open discussions.

When an elderly person requires more assistance than a caregiver, the search for assisted living begins. There are options if you notice signs that your parents may need assistance. These six steps will help you learn more about assisted living in Myrtle Beach, and to find the right fit for them.

Things To Do When Deciding If Assisted Living Is The Right Choice

1. Talk to your family

Your parents must have a part in deciding whether or not they should move to an assisted living facility. The better the end result, the sooner everyone can get on the same page.

You must be honest about your ability to care for others. Recognize your needs and communicate them with others. Caring for someone with dementia is a difficult job that should not be done alone.

All disagreements should be resolved. It’s a good idea for other family members to be involved in the decision to move your parents to a community. Family members can be supportive and help ease the transition. You might also be able to come up with ideas that you didn’t know existed by asking your family members.

You can’t make your parents listen to you. If your parents seem to be in denial about the need for care, take a moment to share your thoughts, concerns, and feelings. Write down your parents’ fears and preferences.

Use a professional mediator. Elder mediators are able to help relatives and seniors come to an understanding of each other’s concerns. Their goal is for everyone to have a voice in a constructive and safe environment.

2. Learn how assisted living can benefit you

Assess the needs of your loved one. Begin by evaluating their daily activities, or ADLs. Are they able to bathe, dress and move around easily? What kind of assistance do they need?

Learn more about assisted living communities. Assisted living is a broad term that covers many different areas than most people realize. It’s not the same thing as memory care or nursing homes. These two types of communities offer more involvement and specialized care than assisted living.

Think about the potential benefits. As technology advances, assisted living communities are adapting to the times. Many communities offer a wide range of activities and amenities, while still providing the highest level of care to ensure your loved one is safe and comfortable.

3. Plan how you will pay for your care

When you are looking at senior living options, the first step is to determine the type of care you may need. Next, assess your family’s monthly budget. Look for assisted living communities that fit your budget. While some people have long-term or savings insurance, others must look into other options to pay for senior living.

Talk to your parents about finances. Open, supportive conversations about key aspects of the move are essential to creating the best transition plan. To avoid stress and surprises, it is important to discuss finances as soon as possible due to the high cost of senior living. Learn about the costs of assisted living. However, costs can vary depending on where you live.

Be aware of your options when it comes to paying for care. Private funds are the most common way for families to pay for senior care. However, private health insurance, Medicare and VA benefits can also be used to help.

4. Take a virtual tour of a senior living community or visit it in person

A visit to an assisted living community is better than the time spent reading through brochures, floor plans, and reviews. At least three communities should be on your short list. We recommend the following:

You and your parent should schedule visits and make sure to visit the community during mealtimes. You can make the best choice by getting to know the staff and allowing them to sample the food.

To get a better understanding of the culture and environment in the area, take a broad-ranging tour. Take part in an activity, visit the lodging options and take a look around the grounds.

You can schedule follow-up visits, and you can use our community touring checklist for key questions and detailed notes. If possible, we recommend visiting or virtual touring promising communities more than once.

5. To find the best assisted living community, you can consult a variety of sources

Talk to others who are knowledgeable about the subject to get as much information as possible before making a decision. Read reviews about senior living communities in your area to help you make an informed decision.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for the best care possible for your aging parents.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/