8 Tips to Help You Have a Successful Visit With Your Loved One at Memory Care

At My Living Choice, we understand how important it is to maintain a strong connection with your family members living with Alzheimer's disease or other memory-related conditions. When a loved one begins to experience challenges with memory, the transitional stages that follow can take an emotional toll on everyone. 

It can be difficult to know how to navigate these changes while maintaining familiarity with your loved one. This is especially true for those with family in memory care communities as separation can create an even stronger sense of distance. 

However, senior living communities have services and amenities designed to improve the quality of life for seniors, including memory care services for those with dementia. Knowing that they are safe and properly cared for day-to-day allows you to relax and focus on making visits special.

Below are some invaluable tips to make your visits to nursing homes in Akron a memorable and uplifting experience for both you and your loved one.

#1.) Plan your visit thoughtfully.

Start by scheduling your visit at a time when your loved one is most alert and comfortable. This might mean avoiding mealtimes or busy hours, and not visiting too late in the day.

Many memory care nursing homes in Akron have scheduled programs designed to strengthen cognitive skills and promote socialization, among other benefits. Knowing your loved one's routine can help you choose the best time for a visit, ensuring a more pleasant experience for everyone involved.

#2.) Create a familiar environment.

Bring along familiar items from home, such as family photos, their favorite blanket, or a cherished book. These personal touches can provide comfort and stimulate positive memories.

Scrapbooks are a great way to refresh memories and allow you to collaborate on a family heirloom to pass down for generations. Consider starting a scrapbook for your loved one and continuing to update it with each visit, celebrating this new phase of life and documenting new memories made with them.

#3.) Engage in meaningful activities.

Consider activities that your loved one enjoys or used to enjoy, like listening to music, looking at photo albums, or taking a short walk in the garden. Engaging in familiar activities can help stimulate memories and create enjoyable moments.

Memory care nursing homes in Akron provide personalized care that resonates with seniors as they navigate this new chapter, connecting their current interests and abilities to the hobbies and activities they’ve always loved. This connection is important for maintaining a sense of purpose and identity, a priority for memory care communities.

#4.) Be patient and empathetic.

Those living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia may have difficulty with communication. Be patient, listen actively, and show empathy. Sometimes, a comforting touch or a simple smile can convey your love and support more effectively than words.

It’s common for people living with dementia to make small mistakes with their speech, such as getting a known fact wrong or using a word incorrectly. Show grace – while it’s important that any missteps affecting safety are addressed, minor conversational slip-ups don’t need to be corrected and letting them pass can avoid frustration for everyone.

#5.) Use positive body language.

Non-verbal communication is crucial. Maintain eye contact, use a soft and reassuring tone, and offer a gentle touch. Your loved one may not always remember your words, but they will remember how you make them feel.

As the stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s progress, communicating through body language and touch becomes even more so beneficial. Offering a gentle, reassuring touch goes a long way for loved ones who are no longer able to communicate verbally.

#6.) Limit distractions.

Create a calm and peaceful environment during your visit. Reduce distractions, such as loud noises or excessive activity in the area, to help your loved one focus on your time together.

Memory care communities are designed with dementia in mind, offering soothing environments that make visits comfortable and welcoming for seniors and their loved ones. Take advantage of Akron nursing home amenities that make connecting simple and serene, such as landscaped walking paths or cozy lounge areas.

#7.) Respect their personal space.

Respect your loved one's boundaries and personal space. Always ask for permission before hugging or touching them, and be prepared for them to decline if they don't feel comfortable.

For those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, the stress and frustration of losing various abilities can be overwhelming. Let them set the pace of the visit based on their current mood and needs. If you have any questions or concerns regarding what is appropriate and what to avoid, talk to a nursing home team member.

#8.) Stay informed and involved.

Stay in close contact with the care team at the memory care community. They can provide insights into your loved one's daily life, preferences, and any changes in their condition. Your active involvement in their care will make a positive difference.

Knowing what to expect as dementia progresses can also help you and other family members and friends prepare for future stages and the accompanying changes in safety concerns, behaviors, and activity levels. Understanding the stages of dementia progression can help those affected navigate their memory changes more smoothly and provide loved ones and caregivers with the confidence to create a plan for the journey ahead.

How Do You Know When Memory Care is Needed?

Although memory changes are a common part of aging, more severe changes that affect day-to-day abilities and safety may be a sign of dementia. There are 14 dementia red flags to be aware of if you are concerned your loved one may be experiencing early signs of dementia. If you believe your loved one with dementia may benefit from daily assistance and a more secure environment, check out the five key signs it’s time to consult memory care services.

When looking for memory care nursing homes in Akron, it's crucial to consider the amenities and services being offered. These play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's and dementia and providing peace of mind for their loved ones. Families seeking the right memory care community can rely on My Living Choice as a valuable research tool.

Find Memory Care Nursing Homes in Akron

My Living Choice is your trusted partner in finding the ideal memory care community that meets your loved one's unique care needs and provides them with a vibrant and fulfilling life. We are a powerful research tool that seniors and their families can use to find the perfect memory care community. 

Our platform provides comprehensive listings of memory care communities in the Akron area, allowing you to explore various options. Alongside detailed information about each community – including services, amenities, staff qualifications, and more – you can also access reviews and ratings from other families to help you make an informed decision.

Our team is here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and offer personalized support to help you choose the best memory care community for your loved one.