transition is to plan ahead. Sometimes a sudden change in health drives the need to move, such as a stroke or fall resulting in impaired mobility. In these instances, the
communities in advance and understand the financial impacts of each, easing the pressure if the unforeseen should happen. Involving parents up front helps them be part of the decision-making process, which ultimately gives them a sense of “Pine Ridge of Plumbrook has given life back to my aunt control — something important in such a positive way. There are not enough words to to everyone. describe it. She has made so many new friends and joined Other times, a slower decline so many activities. She feels and looks healthier. The staff is in health or memory drives the wonderful; they are always there to help her with whatever decision. A change in special she needs whether a big or small request.” – CHRISTINE C. care needs related to dementia, family is often still reeling from the event incontinence or help getting to and from while simultaneously making quick decisions bed can become too much for the family before the loved one is discharged from a caregiver’s expertise, schedule or the safety rehabilitation facility. Planning ahead allows of the parent. Informed planning will ease families to discuss and research options, tour the process in these cases as well, since all of
RECONNECTING AFTER YOUR PARENT MAKES THE MOVE When daily caregiving shifts to the hands of assisted living staff, there is new opportunity in the relationship to reconnect with your parent in different ways. Maximize this special moment in time by considering the following: Move past guilt Family members sometimes feel guilty about placing loved ones into assisted living. This guilt is natural but is not productive. Continually remind yourself that this change is in everyone’s best interests.
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Keep in touch but don’t enable Although visits and phone calls help monitor the new home and the parent’s health and well-being, avoid inhibiting independence. It takes time to make new friends and get involved in the community, so allow space for adjustment to the new environment. Before long, you’ll likely see your parent blossom with new friends, hobbies and a healthy outlook on life.
Share and listen Keep your parent engaged with you and your family by sharing your life with him or her. Talk about everyday happenings and ask lots of openended questions of your parent. Listening carefully may uncover issues or questions your parent might be uncomfortable raising such as topics related to wills, trusts, religion or even death and dying.
Consider opportunities to capture your parent’s legacy This time of life often involves reflecting on the legacy that will be left behind. Find a way to help your parent capture and memorialize this through concrete projects such as photo albums, a recorded oral history or a craft project you can complete together.