The transition to memory care can be challenging, especially if you are accustomed to being the primary caregiver. It’s important to establish relationships and clear communication with new caregivers to help both you and your loved one feel at peace during this fragile time.
If you’re not sure where to begin, our team has created a list of our top tips for how to establish open communication with team members. All of these practical strategies can help you feel more connected to and informed about your loved one’s care.
1. Introduce Yourself and Build Relationships With Caregivers
Although this may sound like a very basic step, taking the time to simply introduce yourself can be quite meaningful. This helps to initiate a positive relationship with caregivers, letting them know who you are and that you appreciate their hard work.
It can be helpful to really get to know the care team who is taking care of your loved one. This might look like asking about their personal lives so you can relate - perhaps you have children the same age, enjoy similar hobbies, or root for the same sports team? Finding little commonalities that you can talk about helps to build a deeper connection beyond simply caring for your loved one, which helps keep communication open and more enjoyable.
2. Provide Helpful Insight About Your Loved One
Since your loved one may not be able to communicate as clearly as they could before their cognitive decline began, it can be insightful for you to share information on their behalf. This will help new caregivers get to know your loved one, too. Certain personality traits, health issues, hobbies, or quirks could be helpful knowledge to pass on to your loved one’s new care team.
However, please be mindful not to bombard the care team or become demanding. Remember that you’re all on the same team, doing your best to ensure your loved one receives the high quality, personalized care that they need. A little kindness can go a long way.
3. Schedule Communication in Advance
Does your loved one’s Park Ridge, IL memory care offer regular care plan meetings or schedule monthly update calls?
This is certainly a good question to ask because many times scheduling these check-ins ahead of time can eliminate surprises or miscommunications. Knowing you have a specific time to talk with staff can reduce the stress of wondering when you will have an opportunity to communicate and ensure you are kept up to date with the care of your loved one.
Similarly, it ensures that the care team will have an opportunity to talk with you as they likely have updates and questions they would like to share as well. Communicating regularly also develops good rapport so that you and the care team feel as though you can speak honestly and are truly working together. This is a win-win scenario!
4. Utilize Available Resources Provided by the Memory Care Community
Another common offering is for memory care communities to provide training or classes for family members. These topics may range from how to make a smooth transition into senior living to tips for how seniors can increase mobility and decrease pain. Check out the calendar of events to see what trainings are happening near you.
By attending trainings, you will get to know more of the staff who run the Park Ridge, IL memory care community. This can help build trust and understanding, giving you peace of mind that your loved one is receiving the care they need.
5. Volunteer Your Time
Many memory care communities welcome family and friends to volunteer within the community. There may be specific times or activities to assist with or they may be open to ideas that you have as well.
This can provide a special time for you to engage with your loved one, get to know other members of the community, and enjoy watching their interactions together. Ask the care team how to start the volunteer process if you are interested; the more the merrier!
Additional Resources for Families
Wherever you and your loved one are on the journey to senior living, it can be helpful to have somewhere to answer questions about cognitive decline and how it progresses. That’s why our team has created The Caregiver’s Complete Guide to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care.
This free guide is the perfect starting place to learn how dementia progresses, early warning signs, and where to find additional resources. Download your guide today to find answers and more peace of mind.
