What To Expect During The First 30 Days In Memory Care

When a senior loved one is transitioning to memory care, it’s the kind of change where you and your family are asking questions that may stem from concern or uncertainty. The first 30 days for your loved one in such a setting will be crucial as it involves establishing routines, creating a sense of comfort in a new environment, and establishing trust with staff members. Knowing what to expect during this period will help you become more prepared and at peace with the decision to move forward with addressing your senior loved one’s memory care needs.

Managing your own emotions and expectations may be one thing to consider during this 30 day period. At the same time, it’s important to consider what happens with your senior loved one as they begin to adjust to their new living arrangement and daily routines.

The First Week: Assessment and Adjustment

The first week will usually be the hardest as a family member of a senior loved one. However, you’ll be at ease knowing what the memory care staff does for them at the outset. Care staff will focus on assessing your loved one’s needs while also providing them with immediate comfort. They’ll monitor their preferences, patterns, and specific needs. Meanwhile, they’ll observe and make notes of their personality and triggers in order to create the best approach to your senior loved one’s care and comfort.

It can be common for your senior loved one to experience some anxiety or even confusion during the first few days in memory care. This is due to the new environment they’re in, unfamiliar faces, and changed routines. So it can seem overwhelming to them at the outset.  However, care teams are highly trained to handle these situations from the beginning by providing your senior loved one with the gentle reassurance and support they need.

Before the transition begins, memory care teams will ask for detailed information regarding your loved one’s history, favorite activities, preferences, and daily routines. These will be beneficial in creating a personalized approach from the start while making their transition into memory care much easier.

Establishing Daily Routines and Familiarities

In the second week, the major focus is on establishing daily routines that are vital to your loved one’s structure and security. Predictable schedules can reduce instances of confusion and anxiety especially if they are dealing with Alzheimer’s or a form of dementia. One such thing to consider is that mealtimes are a great anchoring event where staff members pay attention to any dining preferences your loved one may have as well as any assistance they may need.

Beyond this, personal care routines are also established gradually so that your loved one is well taken care of. Care staff will assist them with daily activities that include bathing, grooming, dressing, and other activities. At the same time, they will maintain dignity, safety, and comfort.

As your senior loved one begins to adjust, care staff will always make sure they are comfortable and all of their needs are addressed accordingly. You will also be updated regularly on any progress and be able to ask questions about what happens next. This sort of relationship between you and the staff is important especially when your loved one is in need of the best memory care possible.

Relationships with Care Staff Established

At this point, your loved one will most likely be comfortable with their new care team. They may be able to recognize them by face alone and not so much by name. This consistent approach proves that staff members are building meaningful but professional relationships with your senior loved one. This also allows them to learn about their preferences and communication styles among others.

Your loved one may also begin engaging in activities and interactions that bring them joy. Memory care communities are able to carefully plan life enrichment programs that best fit their needs and preferences. Still, they are also able to provide reassurance and redirect your loved one’s attention if they become confused or even agitated.

More Engagement In Community Life and Activities

During the fourth week, your senior loved one may begin to actively participate more in community life. They can take part in numerous activities such as sensory-based activities and social programs that are introduced to them gradually. At the same time, these activities are based on their level of comfort and interests.

For example, your senior loved one may enjoy taking part in group activities in a communal space. If they prefer a quieter setting, they might participate in a smaller group setting. The care staff is always looking for the right balance that gives your loved one the stimulation they need without overwhelming them.

Regular Medical and Health Monitoring

During the first 30 days and beyond, your senior loved one will be monitored regularly to ensure that any medical or health needs are being met. These include tracking their sleep schedules, eating patterns, responses to medication, and changes to their cognitive or physical health. You can have peace of mind knowing that this is all part of the 24-hour care process that your senior loved one is getting regularly.

The staff also communicates with you and your loved one’s healthcare providers regularly regarding any necessary changes such as care or even medication management. You have a right to know what’s going on with them regarding any adjustments that need to be made to address their ongoing medical and health needs.

Experience Peace of Mind During Your Loved One’s Transition To Memory Care at Heron Cove in Vero Beach, Florida

Heron Cove Assisted Living & Memory Care offers compassionate memory care for your senior loved one and gives you peace of mind knowing they are in the best of hands. We know that the first 30 days will be crucial for your senior loved one. Yet, we will make sure they are getting the best care in that time period and beyond while we regularly update you with how they are adjusting and more. For more information on how we can assist your senior loved one, contact us at Heron Cove today.