Being a caregiver for a loved one with dementia is noble, but it is not always the best solution for every family. Deciding to move to memory care may be difficult, but it is often the best way to ensure that your loved one has the companionship, support, and round-the-clock supervision that they need. If your Mom or Dad is in a memory care facility, you can relieve any anxiety by being an active advocate for their care and well-being.

Family advocacy is essential for those with dementia. This article will discuss details to watch out for and how to communicate with the staff effectively.

Learn About the Community Lifestyle

Understand Routines and Activities: Family members should familiarize themselves with the daily routine of the memory care community, including meal times, scheduled activities, and times for relaxation. Understanding the flow of their daily lives can help to evaluate the level of engagement your loved one experiences.
Medication Management: One of the most important things families should ascertain is how medication management is handled at the residence. Make sure that there is a clear protocol for administering any medications and that personnel are knowledgeable about your family member’s unique medication requirements.
Interactions with Facility Staff: Take note of how employees interact with the residents, including the way they communicate and how your loved one reacts to these interactions. A kind and compassionate staff can significantly impact the life of their residents.
Safety Precautions: Evaluate the security protocols the residence has in place to ensure the safety of those who live there. Memory care communities should have secure and monitored exits and entrances, avoiding any dementia-related wandering into potentially unsafe spaces.
Condition of the Facility: Be sure to notice the little details about living conditions, including how clean the common areas are, and the overall maintenance of the building. A clean and well-cared-for environment contributes to the overall health and comfort of community residents.

Communicate with Staff to Effectively Advocate

Begin the Conversation: Cultivate a collaborative relationship with the memory care personnel by opening the lines of communication. Schedule regular meetings to touch base and advocate for your loved one’s well-being, bring up any concerns, and remain informed about any needed modifications to the care plan.
Be Clear and Concise: Be as clear and detailed as possible when speaking about concerns or specific observations. Document details about any changes in behavior or incidents to help the onsite staff understand the situation troubling you and respond effectively.
Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to what the staff says, as they are present for more of your loved one’s daily experiences. Staff insights and expertise provide valuable information when offering potential solutions.
Share Personal Insights: Make sure that staff members are clear on your family member’s habits, preferences, and story. All these details can be combined to develop a personalized and strategic care plan.
Ask the Right Questions: Don’t be shy about asking any necessary questions about your loved one’s care plan, or to ask for regular updates on medical or facility policies. Being proactive when collecting information allows you to be more informed and involved in important decisions.

Give Yourself an Education

There are many ways for family members to make sure they understand what their loved one is going through and thus effectively advocate for their care. <

Progression of Memory Impairment: Educate yourself about the specific impairment your loved one is experiencing so that you can better understand the potential challenges and set practical expectations for your loved one.
Knowledge of Medications: Learn as much as possible about the medications prescribed to your family member, including possible side effects, dosage requirements, and how they are likely to impact cognitive function.
Patterns of Behavior: There are certain behavioral patterns typically associated with cognitive impairment, and knowing the triggers for specific behaviors can help to create coping strategies proactively.
Support Networks: Take advantage of the many support networks and counseling services for families dealing with memory impairment to gain emotional support, insights, and camaraderie with those facing similar circumstances.

A Banyan Residence operates a professional memory care facility at our location in The Villages. If you want to learn more about how we can help your family, call today for a visit and tour.