Maybe you’re trying to repay them after everything they’ve done for you. Or maybe you’re hesitant to trust someone else with their care. Or maybe your loved one just flat-out refuses additional help from a memory care community. Whatever the situation, being the primary caregiver for a family member with dementia is hard. And feelings of guilt are likely to creep in along the way.
Caregiver guilt is an extremely real and painful experience, and it comes in many different forms. Feeling overwhelmed with the responsibilities of caregiving, feeling impatient with your loved one, or even blaming yourself for things that have happened are common. Guilt can often lead to feelings of shame, depression, anxiety, anger, and even resentment towards the person you’re caring for.
The realization that you are no longer able to care for your loved one with dementia is an unsure and overwhelming process. It’s tough to let go and turn to additional support, especially when your loved one is refusing. Caregiver guilt can have real consequences for the relationship with your loved one if it goes on too long. But at the end of the day, you must do what’s best for both of you. Their health and safety matter most, and so does your well-being .
A dementia diagnosis flips your world upside down, and realizing that you can no longer care for your family member is a lot to bear. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with the guilt you are dealing with.
After deciding that additional support is needed, you’ll probably ask yourself: What now?
As dementia progresses into the later stages, it may be time to consider memory care. Memory care communities are designed to meet the needs of individuals facing cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Our team at Orchard Heights is specially trained to focus on the unique strengths and needs of every resident. Your loved one will receive personalized care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, grooming, and dressing. Additionally, on-site nursing staff are available to address any health concerns that arise, providing you with both comfort and peace of mind.
Our community is dedicated to creating a warm, comfortable, and safe space where your loved one can feel right at home. We also offer around-the-clock memory care activities schedule intended to stimulate the mind and ensure that every resident is left entirely fulfilled. Some of these activities include daily exercise programs, classes, clubs, music therapy, and various memory care games.
At Orchard Heights, our memory care community offers more than just a place to live — it’s a new beginning filled with meaningful possibilities. We understand that the transition into memory care can be a challenging and emotional decision. That’s why we’re here to walk alongside your loved one on their dementia journey, offering compassionate support every step of the way. Contact us today!
A dementia diagnosis can be very intimidating to individuals and their families. It signals a decline in cognitive abilities, and there isn’t a cure for most memory disorders. Many also fear that the individual affected will no longer be able to engage in activities for their enjoyment or benefit.
People with memory care disorders at all stages can still enjoy activities, even if that participation looks different. Dementia is a memory disorder that refers to the loss of memory, language, and cognitive abilities that affects the ability to function in everyday life. It’s important to know the stages as well as the activities and levels of participation that are best for each stage.
Individuals who are impacted by early-stage dementia may still be able to function independently. Although seniors may still participate in their daily routine, caregivers may start to notice signs of memory decline, like misplacing keys. Symptoms start to have some impact on a senior’s life.
Other common symptoms include:
In the early stages, most seniors can still participate in regular recreational activities. Memory impairment may become evident, especially with memory-related games. Activities that are most beneficial at this stage involve storytelling, memory activities such as word searches and puzzles, and self-expression activities such as painting or singing along to music. Though practicing memory activities may seem counterintuitive, it can be helpful for people with dementia to jog their memory.
The middle stage of dementia presents changes and symptoms that become much more noticeable, especially to family and friends of those affected. At this point in the disease, many individuals need either reminders or physical assistance with completing activities of daily living (ADLs). Common ADLs include bathing, dressing, and toileting.
Symptoms of Middle-Stage Dementia include:
During the middle stage of dementia, many people still desire to participate in recreational activities but may need prompting to start or continue engagement. The best activities for this stage include cognitive skills (such as daily living tasks like folding laundry), easy physical activities such as guided walks, memory activities like watching an old movie, and sorting.
Late-stage dementia has a profound impact not only on those living with the condition but also on their caregivers. At this point, individuals need full-time, 24/7 care around the clock and require physical assistance with every activity of daily living. It’s very common to see drastic personality changes and a loss of ability to control their own movement or respond to the world around them.
Symptoms include:
Individuals who are at the severe stage of dementia have limited abilities to communicate and experience increased emotional difficulty due to memory loss. At this stage, activities should be focused on providing sensory comfort and gentle stimulation to impacted individuals. Even when seniors with dementia can no longer communicate, they may still enjoy and benefit from sensory activities, making engagement especially important at this stage.
Some activities that best support seniors at this stage are gentle stretches, pet therapy, holding hands, and looking at old photos. Social interaction is still important at this stage, regardless of the affected senior’s ability to talk. Friends, family, and caregivers can accomplish this by telling stories or reading to their loved one as well.
Despite the challenges that dementia brings, people with dementia can still find comfort and enjoyment from participating in recreational activities that are fun and mindful of their abilities. It is important to consider that some activities may have to be significantly modified to meet the needs of individuals with moderate to severe dementia, as their cognitive and physical abilities will decline over time. In addition, during the progression of the disease, they may show disinterest in hobbies they’ve previously enjoyed, so new activities may have to replace old ones – and that is totally okay!
Though a dementia diagnosis can be challenging for seniors and their families, recreational activities are a great way to navigate those difficulties and provide stimulation and enjoyment. By utilizing activities that play to the individual’s strengths and capabilities, memory care residents and their caregivers can see positive outcomes. Our community can offer great assistance for dementia residents and their families, providing activities that are tailored to the needs and capabilities of seniors with dementia. Orchard Heights offers 24/7 recreational activities designed for cognitive impairment, providing a variety of entertainment and engagement that has something for every resident. If you or your loved one is struggling with a memory care disorder, we can help. Reach out to us today to book a tour!
Orchard Heights proudly unveiled its newly transformed Freedom Lounge, a space dedicated to honoring the community’s veteran residents. Once the facility’s art room, the renovated lounge is now a welcoming and peaceful space for veterans to relax, reflect, and connect. The unveiling ceremony, held at 2:30 p.m., was attended by residents, staff, and special guests, including the Mayor of Orchard Park.
“We are proud to recognize the men and women who have served our country,” said Tami Jo Smith, Executive Director, at Orchard Heights. “The Freedom Lounge is a space of gratitude—created to honor their service, their stories, and their continued contributions to our community.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to veterans and their families, Orchard Heights is pleased to invite the public to an informational session on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. The session will be led by Robert Stutz, Outreach Specialist from the New York State Division of Veterans’ Services, and will focus on state and local benefits available to veterans and surviving spouses. Special emphasis will be placed on the VA Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit, which can help offset the cost of Assisted Living Care.
This event is free and open to the public. Veterans, spouses, family members, and caregivers are encouraged to attend. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour Orchard Heights’ community and learn more about how we serve and support our veteran residents.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Tami Jo Smith at 716-662-0651 or TJSmith@OrchardHeights.com.
Caring for loved ones as they grow older is a meaningful way to give back and express your love and compassion; however, providing that care often becomes more and more challenging as they continue to age. This could be a sign that it is time to seek the added support and care that assisted living has to offer.
Assisted living is a type of residential care designed for seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). In our senior living community, residents have access to staff for emergency assistance and receive support with various daily tasks, such as eating, dressing, and bathing.
Residents in assisted living have the option of as much assistance as they would like, while also giving them the opportunity to maintain a sense of independence. Our community provides additional personal care services, including housekeeping services, laundry, and transportation.
Assisted living facilities are more than just a place to live, but rather a community to thrive. At Orchard Heights, we offer a wide range of top tier services and amenities for residents to indulge in, such as an on-site beauty salon and barbershop, beautiful outdoor patios and walking paths, and The Orchard Store! Our residents can also participate in daily events and recreational activities.
So, when is it time to consider assisted living?
There is a wide range of reasons to consider additional help. Have you noticed a decline in your loved one’s health? Are you struggling to maintain their health on your own? Are they combating loneliness? If you answered yes to any of these questions, assisted living may be a strong contender when finding the external support your loved one deserves.
Assisted living is a suitable option for seniors who are finding it difficult to live independently. These individuals may struggle with mobility or fine motor skills, have recently suffered from an injury or health emergency, or are in the early stages of memory impairment.
Additional signs that a loved one may be ready for assisted living include unpaid bills, isolation, noticeable weight loss, and a decline in cleanliness or hygiene—all signs of self-neglect. They could simply want or need assistance with tasks ranging from cooking and housekeeping to getting dressed or using the bathroom in the middle of the night.
No matter the reason, assisted living communities offer peace of mind to both seniors and those closest to them, knowing that a team of trained staff members is always nearby if needed.
Assisted living ensures that your aging loved one receives the attention and care that they deserve, while also providing you with the peace that you deserve. Transitioning into senior living may be a daunting task, but it could be the absolute best decision for you and your loved one.
At Orchard Heights, we’re here to support you and your family every step of the way, making the assisted living in Orchard Park, NY journey as smooth and comforting as possible. Schedule a private tour today!
Our eyes are incredibly precious, yet it’s easy to take our vision for granted until problems arise. Let’s focus on proactive steps to maintain and improve our eye health. Here are some tips to keep your vision in top shape:
One of the best ways to safeguard your vision is by scheduling regular eye exams. Comprehensive eye exams can detect vision problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of further complications. Make it a priority to see your eye doctor at least once a year, even if you don’t currently wear glasses or contact lenses.
Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the sun’s harmful UV rays. Whenever you’re outdoors, especially on bright, sunny days, wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes from potential damage.
In today’s digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time staring at screens, whether it’s for work, leisure, or staying connected. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, and nuts and seeds. These nutrients can help protect against age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts.
Proper eye hygiene is essential for preventing eye infections and irritation. Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses. Follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for contact lens care, including proper cleaning, disinfecting, and storage.
Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, so be sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your eyes and body hydrated.
Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, including eye health. During sleep, your eyes receive much-needed rest and replenishment. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help reduce eye fatigue and maintain optimal visual function.
By incorporating these simple yet effective tips into your daily routine, you can help protect and preserve your precious eyesight for years to come.
Your eyesight is irreplaceable, so take care of your eyes today for a brighter tomorrow!
National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) is approaching, urging us to reflect on the importance of taking control of our health journey. NHDD is not just a day; it’s a movement that aims to inspire, educate, and empower individuals and their families about the significance of advance care planning.
What is Advance Care Planning?
Advance care planning goes beyond mere medical decisions. It’s about ensuring that your wishes are known and respected, particularly during times when you may not be able to express them yourself. By proactively discussing and documenting your healthcare preferences, you provide yourself and your loved ones with peace of mind, knowing that your choices will guide your care.
For Those Considering Senior Living Options
Whether you’re exploring independent living or assisted living, advance care planning is vital to maintaining autonomy and dignity. With a plan in place, you can continue making choices aligned with your values and preferences as your needs evolve. Whether you envision an active lifestyle or anticipate the need for additional support, advanced care planning empowers you to live life on your terms.
For Families Seeking Memory Care
For families navigating the complexities of memory care for a loved one, advance care planning offers clarity and direction amidst challenging circumstances. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia require thoughtful discussions about medical care to ensure your loved ones get quality care from memory care-certified staff at a licensed memory care community.
Our highly trained memory care staff is always on hand to lend support to family members, while providing peace and purpose to our residents, creating a truly exceptional experience for our families.
How We Can Help
We aim to ensure you feel informed, supported, and empowered to make decisions that reflect your values and preferences. Whether you’re considering independent living, assisted living, or memory care, having a plan in place empowers you to live with confidence and peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more!
As we embrace National Senior Independence Month, it’s an opportune time to celebrate the spirit and resilience of our elderly community members. Every February, this dedicated month serves as a reminder to focus on fostering autonomy and well-being among seniors, promoting a life of purpose and independence. Let’s explore how our facility plays a vital role in supporting and encouraging the independence of our beloved seniors.
We honor the journey of our community members and celebrate their ability to live life on their own terms. Growing older doesn’t mean sacrificing independence; instead, it’s an opportunity to embrace newfound freedoms and pursue passions with unwavering enthusiasm. From sticking with beloved hobbies to discovering new interests, staying connected with loved ones, and prioritizing health and well-being, seniors have the power to shape their own destinies. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering seniors as they navigate the next chapter of life.
Senior living communities play a vital role in fostering autonomy, well-being, and a sense of belonging among residents. Let’s explore some of the primary aspects we consider when evaluating how we can promote independence among our residents:
Our facility prioritizes personalized care plans that acknowledge the unique needs, preferences, and abilities of each resident. By understanding and respecting their individuality, we empower seniors to maintain a sense of control over their lives.
We’ve designed our facility with accessibility in mind. From easily navigable spaces to thoughtful amenities, our goal is to provide an environment that allows seniors to move freely and comfortably, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency.
National Senior Independence Month is the perfect time to highlight the diverse range of activities available. From fitness classes to arts and crafts, our facilities offer a variety of engaging activities that encourage seniors to explore new interests and maintain an active lifestyle.
National Senior Independence Month serves as a reminder that independence is a lifelong journey. We are committed to creating an environment where seniors can thrive, embracing their autonomy, and living life on their terms. Let’s all continue to champion the cause of senior independence and ensure that every individual has the support and resources needed to lead a fulfilling and self-determined life.
Dear Residents,
If you have recently joined an assisted living community in the Orchard Park area, welcome! Assisted living facilities offer a vibrant community with awaiting opportunities and support. With a multitude of benefits available to the potential friendships you can make, and the activities offered, you will find the fulfillment you’ve been searching for. In this blog post, we will focus on the benefits of assisted living and making the most of this chapter. Creating new memories and exploring your options will create opportunities to thrive, let’s dive in.
The activities offered encourage friendship between residents, and overall fun. The importance of participating in activities can be overlooked, taking part in social interaction creates meaningful connections. No matter who you are, as you get older, cognitive stimulation is necessary to help keep your mind as sharp as possible. Having an activity to look forward to will help create some structure to your experience, and a positive outlook. Not only are activities good for your mental health, but also physical. Exercise programs of all levels will help maintain your strength and flexibility. Facilities have activities because it enhances resident’s quality of life. Choose to participate!
Some activities facilities may offer: Trivia, Cards, morning stretch, movies, off campus trips, bingo, live music, crafts, and games. You can participate in all of these and more if you choose!
The amenities at assisted living facilities are specifically designed for you, your needs, and your interests. You can enjoy helpful and entertaining amenities all in your community and a safe environment. These amenities can help to contribute to a better quality of life, and opportunities for socialization, relaxation, and feeling a connection to where you are living. At an assisted living facility, taking advantage of the amenities offered to you brings an opportunity to you that you might not have if you weren’t here. Most assisted living facilities cater to a wide variety of individuals and their interests.
Some amenities a facility may offer: Ice cream parlor, beauty salon and barber shop, library, outdoor patios, a computer room with high-speed internet, a walking path, and free WI-FI access.
Services are crucial in assisted living facilities because they provide the support and care you as a resident may need. Assisted living facilities offer on-site nursing staff, so there is no fear of waiting for help to arrive. They can provide professional on-site assistance to care for you to improve your overall quality of life. Housekeeping services offer a clean and safe environment, forget the burden of household chores and discover a piece of mind knowing your room and the facility is regularly cleaned. Some assisted living facilities offer scheduled medical transportation which gives you access to your healthcare needs in a safe manner. Get to your medical appointments, diagnostic tests, specialists and other healthcare services easily.
Facilities may offer multiple meal selections and options for you to choose from. An experienced culinary team prepares healthy meals for you to enjoy and a comfortable ambiance. Something to look out for in an assisted living facility or when deciding to join one, is if they offer a certified dietician and individual dietary needs are reviewed for each individual dining plan (diabetic, no added salt, mechanical soft, dairy free, etc.). Some assisted living facilities offer private indoor dining rooms, residents can invite their families for special occasions to celebrate or get together. This may be different from “home” but homestyle dining offers daily social interaction, fresh meals, and a comfortable place to gather and enjoy.
In assisted living, you have the opportunity to meet people with similar interests or backgrounds, there’s a wide range of residents and everyone is welcome! You have the chance to create special friendships, create new stories and converse about old ones, and gain a sense of belonging. Assisted living communities bring joy, comfort, and excitement for the future. Having a maintenance-free lifestyle opens other doors for your well-being and your assisted living journey.
Assisted living offers an abundance of ways to find joy in this new chapter. From enriching activities and a range of amenities to services offered and homestyle dining, being a part of a community creates a fulfilling lifestyle. Creating meaningful connections and embracing these new opportunities will lead to a worry-free environment and newfound happiness. We encourage you to find joy in the opportunities ahead and excitedly embrace what awaits in assisted living.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people (about twice the population of Texas) worldwide are living with dementia. If your loved one has started showing signs of dementia and you are looking for a memory care facility in Buffalo to provide them with proper and safe care, we’d like to help you in your search. Choosing a memory care facility can affect your loved one’s quality of life and overall well-being. In this blog, we will discuss making informed decisions, and how to find the best memory care facility for your loved one through proper research.
What are the signs of early dementia? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, early dementia signs include problems with:
Conditions usually start slow and progress as time goes on. Contact a doctor if you or your loved one are having difficulties with any of these signs.
When choosing a location, your loved one being comfortable is most important. Is it a new area? Is it the same town they’ve lived in for years? It all depends on your loved ones or your preferences to find the best location to choose. According to The Ridge Senior Living, when choosing a location, the most important factors include how close the family is, the ability of the location to meet your loved ones needs, the surrounding area, and the facilities nearby. Begin your search with facilities near your loved one, it may be best for them to stay within an area they are familiar with and attach memories.
When researching memory care facilities for your loved one, it’s important to research ratings and reviews from family members of current residents. According to A Place for Mom, look for thoughtful reviews and how they compare to ratings, sometimes reviews can be biased or inaccurate, but it’s important to take the time to look and evaluate all the information in front of you. Certain specifics to look for when looking at reviews on websites are the amount, if it’s a family member, specific details, reoccurring topics, and verification of the review. If you find something negative, don’t be afraid to ask the facility more on that topic and evaluate their response when you go on a tour.
Taking a tour of the potential memory care facility your loved one will be at is crucial. This is your time to assess the environment and cleanliness of the facility, if it gives off a positive ambiance. While on a tour, you will meet some staff who would be in charge of your loved one’s care and needs. You want to look for compassionate and kind employees who will put your loved one’s needs first. You have the opportunity to interact with staff and get a feel for their level of training and demeanor. During your tour, keep an eye out for safety precautions the facility takes, like secure entryways and staff to resident ratios. Many facilities offer levels of care or specialized care plans, you can learn more on your tour asking questions about their programs offered and how they evaluate residents with dementia.
Remember, it is not you in memory care, consider your loved one’s comfortability in this facility and ask yourself if this is the best environment for them.
When it comes to memory care, the staff is extremely important to your loved one’s experience. Working in memory care takes passion, patience, and grace. Something to look out for at a memory care facility is if the staff are Certified Dementia Practitioners. They have a special knowledge and training in dementia care, and the various stages and challenges. They are trained in giving personalized care to each resident based on your loved one’s specific and unique needs. When dementia progresses, Certified Dementia Practitioners have the knowledge on how to manage behavior and use redirection techniques to create a supportive environment. Remember to ask on your tour if any of the facility’s staff are Certified Dementia Practitioners.
What’s more important than safety? Many memory care units are designed for people living with dementia to do it safely and for families to feel comfortable their loved ones are in a protected environment. You want your loved one to be able to move around freely and not be in a confined space, which is why doing the proper research and asking the important questions is necessary. When residents can move freely and safely, it can help to reduce anxiety and confusion. That feeling of independence is important for them to hold on to, as A Place for Mom stated, “sheltered freedom.” Things to look for in a facility that promotes safety:
As you begin your search for a memory care facility, you will notice the range in prices and how different needs could affect the overall cost of living. According to A Place for Mom, the national median of a memory care facility costs $5,800 a month in the United States. This can all be affected by location. It can be hard to grasp the amount of money memory care can be, let’s discuss what could be included in the price… on-site nursing, bathing/dressing/grooming, housekeeping services, protocol systems, medication management, transportation, activities, amenities, and dining. Some memory care facilities offer all-inclusive pricing, paying only a monthly fee, regardless of which level of care is needed.
When it comes to affording memory care, there are options. Insurance, savings and assets, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid, family support, state and local programs, nonprofit organizations, reverse mortgage, and life insurance conversions.
When doing your research, look out for activity calendars that offer stimulating programs for residents, especially in memory care. Most facilities offer fun and engaging activities for all residents and some specifically are tailored towards residents with dementia. Having amenities like patios, hair salons, a library, WI-FI and more helps your loved one feel at home and able to independently still make choices. Activities help your loved one stay active and build a sense of daily structure, which can improve their mood.
When deciding or researching a memory care facility, trusting your intuition is an important factor to consider. Ask yourself if it feels right for your loved one and create a pros and cons list. When you tour a memory care facility, you may feel an emotional connection to that facility, or you may not. The atmosphere of the facility can either bring you comfort or warning signs, ask yourself:
Is it a warm environment?
Does it seem well-maintained?
Is the staff engaging and compassionate?
Are their safety measures being implemented?
Do they offer daily stimulating activities?
Your gut is a powerful tool, this is an important time to use it and trust it. Your loved one needs proper care with a patient care team ready to create a fulfilling life for them. If you are struggling with your loved one’s diagnosis and need to talk to someone, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers Alzheimer’s and Dementia support groups. You can also research in your local town the support groups that are offered.
You and your loved one are not alone in this search, there are many resources and opportunities to create a beautiful life. Take the time to do the proper research and consider the right care your loved one needs.
Watching someone you love experience memory loss and confusion can be emotionally challenging. You’ve come to the decision memory care is the best form of support your loved one needs and will offer them the best quality of life. In this blog, we will dive into what steps are next, giving you the knowledge and resources to make the essential choices for your loved one. We all want our loved ones to receive compassionate care and the correct amount of attention, so let’s get started.
#1 Research Memory Care Communities
After deciding, an easy first step to research is typing in memory care facilities in you or your loved one’s area. Click around and spend some time on the websites that appear. When researching in the designated area, take the time to focus on pricing. Some facilities offer a monthly fee or “all-inclusive”, while others offer prices based on the level of care your loved one needs. Pricing can have a significant impact where you choose, but other factors like amenities, services, location and reviews also play a role.
When it comes to amenities, it’s important facilities offer assistance with daily activities. Daily activities include bathing, dressing, and medication management. Activities with cognitive stimulation and social engagement will be vital to your loved one’s overall well-being and cognitive function. Locate the top facilities within budget that you believe will promote the best sense of belonging and a reduced feeling of isolation.
#2 Take a Tour
It’s important to see the facilities in person rather than on their website. Observe your visit closely. Pay attention to whether the staff are friendly and helpful, if the residents look happy, and if it feels comfortable. Explore the kind of activities going on, art therapy, puzzles, music, are some of the stimulating activities memory care facilities should be offering. On this tour, it’s important to be able to ask questions and come prepared. Evaluate the safety and security measures being followed, handrails, well-lit rooms, and secure outdoor areas. The “fun stuff” on a tour is important, keep tabs if the amenities match what they advertise on their website, if they are up to standard as well as checking to see if their nurses are Certified Dementia Practitioners.
When touring a facility, ask questions regarding the staff to resident ratio to evaluate if proper personalized care will be provided. This is your time to express any concerns, ask questions, and see the physical environment for yourself.
#3 Evaluate Financial Planning and Support
To understand and be up to date, you’ll need to explore funding options. Consulting with a financial advisor to look at your loved one’s financial situation can help you determine the best payment options. Familiarize yourself with the different costs like meals, accommodations, and specialized programs. Create a budget if needed, and plan for any future needs for your loved one as the disease progresses.
Evaluate your loved one’s financial situation; their income, savings, and assets. You can explore funding options to help with the cost of memory care, like Medicaid. If you plan on creating a budget, take into account any ongoing costs for your loved one, medical and personal, to make sure you or your loved one does not have any financial strain in the future. Joining a support group can help you learn from other’s experiences and get advice from others in similar situations.
#4 Discuss a Care Plan in Advance
It’s important to develop a care plan which is individually based on your loved one’s specific needs. This disease will eventually take away their ability to make cognizant decisions when it comes to health. It’s important to lay out from the beginning what the necessary steps are to take as this disease continues to progress. Creating a will in advance will allow your loved one’s assets and belongings to be distributed how they specified before the turn of the diagnosis. Choosing a power of attorney, AKA “proxy”, should be someone close and able to make proper medical decisions. Check out more about financial planning when choosing memory care.
Include family members and healthcare professionals when creating and deciding on your loved one’s treatment. Discussing treatment options with doctors and geriatric specialists can help lead you to make the proper decisions about care options, for treatment, medication, and symptom management. Remember to consider your loved one’s preferences so you can make decisions tailored to them and their needs. One of the most important reminders with a loved one in memory care is regularly review and update the plan. If your loved one’s condition has changed, it may be time to reevaluate the care plan and treatment options.
#5 Plan and Prepare for the Transition
As your loved one moves into memory care, here are three main things to remember:
-Change the mailing address to your loved one’s new address.
-Cancel any cable and Wi-Fi subscriptions.
-Update addresses on cards and accounts.
Being prepared will make the transition much smoother and more efficient. Prepare for the emotional transition as well, openly communicate with your loved one on their needs and preferences. For example, validate their emotions, take part in activities with them, create a personalized living space to keep your loved one comfortable, seek support for yourself if you need, and stay positive! Click here for more information on packing for memory care.
When preparing for the transition of your loved one into a memory care facility, make sure to share all relevant information with the facility staff. Letting the staff know their medical history, needs, and daily routines will help to ensure a proper transition because it will be a big change for them. From then on, actively staying engaged with your loved one, staff, and the facility will help you to stay up to date on their well-being and any changes.
Deciding memory care is the best form of care for your loved one, is not easy. But, by taking the proactive steps needed, you can help ensure your loved one has the best possible care and life. This transition can bring many mixed emotions to you, your family and your loved one. Remind yourself you are making a decision to prioritize your loved one’s health, safety, comfort and well-being. Stay on top of your and the facilities communication and always openly address concerns. Embrace this new chapter. You are not alone in this ride, seek help and assistance where needed, spend time with your loved one, visit them for events, connect with their stories and remember to always celebrate small victories.
Book a tour here to see if we’re the right fit for your loved one.