Memory care assisted living is an invaluable asset for those diagnosed with some form of dementia. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s and it affects approximately 5.8 million Americans each year (Alzheimer’s Association).
By choosing a memory care assisted living facility, not only can the senior be surrounded by diligent, responsive, and experienced staff day and night, but the family can rest assured knowing he or she is in good hands.
That sense of peace is often a rarity, especially as the disease progresses and the senior grapples with increasing levels of memory-related challenges.
What is the adjustment period at assisted living like?
As with almost every other type of situation, each person will react differently to new circumstances and surroundings. An aging senior who is in relatively decent health but decides assisted living is the best option for him or her moving forward might adjust more quickly.
Yet, for somebody who has extreme health challenges, diminished physical capability, or more anxiety in social situations may struggle to adjust to this life change more.
For somebody who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the transition can be significant. It might be stressful. It might bring them hope, a sense of peace and comfort, or increased levels of stress and anxiety, at least initially.
One of the primary factors that can determine these issues involves the level of memory loss the senior is dealing with at the time they move into this new assisted living community.
How to make this transition more comfortable.
One of the most effective and best ways to support a senior who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, for example, is to communicate as clearly as possible the changes that are about to take place.
The more serious the memory loss, the more anxious and fearful this person will likely be, especially during those first days and weeks when they make the move.
Reaching out, calling them on the phone, checking in with them frequently, and even visiting, if at all possible, may help to make this transition more comfortable.
Speak to the staff at the assisted living facility.
Each facility and community is going to operate differently and they will have varying expectations, so it’s a good idea to figure out what this facility prefers with regard to familial interaction during the first days or weeks.
If they request more frequent calls and visits to offer assurance or ask that you be responsive to their calls during difficult times, provide what you can. If they believe a little emotional distance could help at first, defer to their expertise.
Ultimately, memory related challenges are going to make transitions to assisted living more difficult than it would be for somebody of full mental faculty. Ultimately, though, assisted living is still a wonderful option, especially for those who are dealing with some form of dementia.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Independent Senior in Living in Pismo Beach, CA, call the caring staff at My Senior Navigator for all your Senior Care needs.
Contact us today: (805)748-2614
