When a family member with dementia moves into a care home like Damfield Gardens or Colliers Croft, it may be a difficult transition for not only them but their loved ones. Although professional carers provide daily support, family involvement remains essential.
Here are some ways you can stay connected and make a meaningful impact on your loved one’s life, even when they’re living in a care home:
Regular Visits
Regular visits provide comfort and familiarity. While your loved one may not always remember the visit, they can still recognise the feelings of love and companionship. Aim to visit as often as possible and make your visits meaningful by doing activities that make them smile, such as looking through family photos and talking about happy memories.
Speak to the Care Home Staff
Our team at Colliers Croft and Damfield Gardens love to chat with family members. By building relationships with care staff, you can be updated on your loved one’s condition and any changes in their care. We love to hear about personal insights into our residents’ lives and tell staff about their likes, dislikes, and history.
Provide Them with Personal Items
Bring sentimental personal items to make your loved one’s room feel like home. Familiar items such as family photos, a cosy cushion, or ornaments that remind them of home can offer comfort and reduce feelings of confusion or loneliness.
Help with their Care Plan
Take an active role in care plan discussions. We often have regular reviews of resident’s care plans, and having your input is very helpful. You know your loved one’s preferences, routines, and personality better than anyone else, so being involved can ensure they receive the best care personalised to them.
Focus on the Positives
Keep your loved one engaged by chatting about happy memories from their past. Dementia can often affect short-term memory more than long-term memory, so discussing happy times from the past can bring a sense of happiness and familiarity. Old photos or music from their era can be great aids.
Try to Stay Calm and Patient
Dementia can be a confusing time for elderly people, which can often lead to them feeling agitated or even experiencing mood swings. Even though it can be difficult to see your loved one like this, try to remain calm and patient, offer reassurance and redirect their attention to a calming activity or topic.
Celebrate the Small Wins
Small moments of clarity and recognition are worth celebrating. When your loved one remembers something, celebrate it. Dementia can feel overwhelming, but celebrating those small wins can help both you and your loved one.
We know moving a loved one with dementia into a care home can be a difficult decision, but we are always on hand to help with any questions you may have.
If you’re looking for a care home for your loved one with dementia, get in touch with Highpoint Care, care homes in Liverpool and St Helens.