Curious about how and when to visit your loved one living in a Knoxville memory care community? Although there is no perfect formula to determine this, there are many important factors that can be helpful when planning visits during this transitional time and into the future. Read on to hear what our team has to say about how often to visit your loved one living in a memory care community.
How Often Should I Visit My Loved One in a Memory Care Community?
The most important factors are how frequently you are used to seeing your loved one prior to them moving into a memory care community and how they are adjusting.
For the first few weeks, it may be helpful to visit more frequently to help your loved one adjust and not feel forgotten, especially if you are used to seeing them every day. On the other hand, more frequent visits may bring sadness or confusion. This is something you will have to gauge for yourself and by communicating with their new caregivers.
As time goes on, it is typically best to schedule regular visits either weekly, biweekly, or monthly. The main goal is to visit regularly and spend quality time together, whether you’re there for 15 minutes or an hour. Visiting too often may disrupt your loved one’s daily routine and prevent them from adjusting fully to their new home and schedule.
Some individuals may feel guilty for not visiting frequently enough, even if they are doing so consistently. This feeling is normal, especially if you are accustomed to being the primary caregiver. At the same time, it is also okay to realize that your loved one is being well taken care of 24/7 by highly trained professionals and that they may or may not even remember how often you visit. It’s important to take care of your own mental health and personal matters now that you know your loved one’s needs are being met in their new home.
When Should I Visit?
This is dependent on your loved one’s new schedule. It can be helpful to communicate with their caregivers to find out times that your loved one has activities, therapies, or other services scheduled.
This also allows you to plan your personal and professional obligations around a predictable visiting schedule and ensures that your loved one will be available to visit with you while you’re there. That way, you can avoid visiting when they are busy and make sure you can spend quality time together.
What Should We Do During Our Visit?
Every visit is unique. Over time, your loved one’s behaviors and recognition will likely change as their disease progresses. However, there are still many ways to have meaningful connections during your time together, even if they don’t look just like they used to.
Most memory care communities have a robust social calendar to engage residents on a regular basis. Depending on the community policies, you may be able to join your loved one during a special activity. If this option is not available or not appropriate, there are many other activities you can enjoy together.
Relaxing Outdoors
Fresh air is always good for the body and the mind. Taking a stroll outside through on-site gardens and walking trails is a great place to chat or simply experience the sounds of nature. The change of scenery can be refreshing for you both. Consider bringing a book, a simple game to play together, or a small radio on the patio for an added activity if your loved one seems interested.
Playing a Familiar Game
Playing cards, board games, or dominoes can be a fun way to engage in old pastimes. Sometimes those experiencing cognitive decline will remember how to play games even if they cannot remember the words to describe what they are doing. On the other hand, they may become agitated or confused in the middle of a game that they are normally very skilled at playing.
It’s important to be patient and go with the flow in these instances, although internally you may feel frustrated. Remember that your loved one is changing and at times they are experiencing a different reality than you are. Despite this possible challenge, playing simple games together from time to time can be a worthwhile and meaningful activity.
Watching a Movie or Television Show
Familiar films and lighthearted comedies can bring a smile to almost everyone. Even if your loved one cannot quite follow the plot or dialogue of the movie, they will likely have a pleasant time simply experiencing the show along with you. This also provides an opportunity for the two of you to cozy up together and sit in close proximity, which is likely comforting to your loved one.
Consider asking if their Knoxville memory care community has DVD players available to watch old favorites. Similarly, bringing a DVD player to your loved one’s apartment may be beneficial. Since physical discs are likely easier to identify and handle, they can skip the hassle of streaming and watch old favorites again and again.
Going Through Photos or Videos of Family and Friends
Pictures and videos can often spark memories. Bringing old photo albums can be a helpful tool to remember and retell beloved stories of the past. This could bring about a mix of emotions for your loved one, but it may help them feel like an important part of the family.
Bringing new photos or videos is also a great way to keep them updated with positive news from relatives, especially grandchildren who change so rapidly. Even if your loved one cannot recognize who everyone is in photos or videos, seeing happy faces and events can still make them happy for a moment, too.
Spending Time With Another Family Member or Friend
An additional familiar face can often sweeten the visit for everyone. Having an extra family member or close friend visit your loved one with you can make conversations flow more easily and make your loved one feel extra special.
What If I Still Have Questions?
Still have questions about how to adjust to this new normal when your loved one is living in a Knoxville memory care community? Check out our free resource, The Caregiver’s Complete Guide to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care.
Here you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions and insightful resources to help you navigate through this challenging season. Download your guide today.
