4 Ways to Stay Connected to a Family Member in Memory Care in Ankeny, Iowa
| Blog
Maintaining a connection with a family member in a memory care community is essential. For adult children and close relatives, this bond is crucial for the well-being of both their loved one and themselves.
Below, CopperWood at Prairie Trail provides practical tips to strengthen these ties, ensuring that your loved one feels your presence and support, even when physical distance creates separation.
The Challenge of Staying Connected
When a family member moves into a memory care community in Ankeny, Iowa, it often comes with mixed emotions. On one hand, you feel relief knowing they are receiving the specialized care they need; on the other, you may worry about how to maintain a close relationship.
Changes in routine, cognitive decline and physical separation can make staying connected seem daunting. However, with a little effort and creativity, you can bridge the gap and keep your bond strong!
1. Establish a Routine of Regular Visits
Regular visits provide a sense of normalcy and remind your loved ones that they are cherished. Establishing a consistent visitation routine is crucial. Decide on specific days and times for your visits and stick to them. This predictability can offer comfort and something for your family member to look forward to.
During your visits, engage in activities that your family member enjoys. Whether it’s playing a board game, reading a book together or simply chatting about daily life, these moments are invaluable. Bringing familiar items from home, like favorite snacks or a beloved blanket, can also make visits more enjoyable and comforting.
2. Build Relationships with Caregivers
Getting to know the caregivers in the memory care community is another essential step. These professionals spend a significant amount of time with your loved one and can offer insights and updates into their daily routines.
Regular communication with caregivers helps build a partnership, ensuring that everyone is working together to provide the best care possible and address concerns promptly. This teamwork can lead to a more personalized and effective care plan tailored to your loved one’s unique needs.
3. Incorporate Loved Ones into Family Events
Family events and holidays are special times that should include all members, regardless of where they reside. Planning to incorporate your loved one into these occasions, even when they live in a memory care community, can create lasting memories and a sense of belonging.
If possible, arrange for your family member to join in festive gatherings. Coordinate with the memory care team members to ensure they are comfortable and have what they need. If physical attendance isn’t feasible, use video calls to bring the celebration to them. Sharing photos, videos and stories later on can also help them feel connected to the family event.
4. Stay Connected Between Visits
Leveraging technology can bridge the gap effectively. Set up regular video calls using platforms like Zoom or FaceTime to maintain face-to-face interactions. These calls offer a chance to share daily experiences and keep your loved one updated on family news.
Writing letters and sending cards is another heartfelt way to stay in touch. Personalize your messages by sharing anecdotes, jokes and words of encouragement. Include photos in your letters to offer visual reminders of happy times and familiar faces. Creating a photo album or scrapbook filled with family pictures, captions and mementos can be a comforting and engaging activity for your loved one.
Memory Care at CopperWood at Prairie Trail
Our memory care community in Ankeny, Iowa, encourages families to stay connected with their loved ones by making them part of the different events, classes and gatherings within our Ankeny community. This allows residents to feel more confident to foster new friendships and adapt easier.
Our goal is to provide specialized care with an emphasis on familiarity, comfort and wellbeing. Our signature Navigate Memory Care experience supports cognitive function and emotional well-being, embracing each resident’s unique abilities. With a team of compassionate and professionally-trained caregivers experts in dementia and memory impairments, we pride ourselves in providing a person-centered approach that ensures your family member’s needs and preferences are met.
—
Maintaining a connection with a family member in a memory care community is vital for their emotional and mental health. By focusing on these strategies, you not only enhance your loved one’s wellbeing but also reinforce the loving and supportive setting they need. Remember, your presence and support can make a significant difference in their lives.For more personalized advice and assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our memory care community in Ankeny, Iowa. We’re always ready to help you in this journey.
