What Is It Like To Live on the Edge? Early Alzheimer’s and Placement
When One Move Isn’t Enough
It’s becoming more and more common….families who have loved ones with early Alzheimer’s or other memory loss. This often makes it unsafe for them to be at home alone. These are loved ones that we could have an entire conversation with or play scrabble with but after a few minutes the memory loss is clear. But are they ready for secure memory care or assisted living? It’s difficult to know what the right placement should be or if one move will be the last move.
As a service, we’re connectors…we don’t make decisions for families, rather we help them through their options based on many factors including care needs and financial requirements. These situations are so difficult…how do families know they’re making the right decision?
One size does NOT fit all.
Alzheimer’s affects each person differently and since we’re all different people with different experiences there isn’t one right answer. There are also different stages of the disease. Add to that, change in environment and routine and moving can be very complicated. Communities and Providers are hopeful and also want to make a difference but ONE size does NOT fit all. Some families may find a great solution that meets their loved ones needs and they never have to move again.
Communities and Providers may face similar issues while caring for your loved one…. changing care plans to accommodate behaviors and communicating difficult situations. Sometimes the only solution is another move. Families are rightfully overwhelmed.
As senior placement advisors, we work hard to gather all the information…communicate even the smallest most difficult behaviors to ensure there are no surprises. We want to give families what they want…which is usually… the last move. The truth is though, that as much as we want each placement to be successful and truly take it personally when it’s not…we just can’t predict behaviors or outcomes.
…the key is to let go of the perfect solution and embrace trial and error.
After many hours working through these tough situations and trying to think what could be done differently…I’m wondering if a shift in perspective is key. I can’t help thinking about a family I worked with who used laughter as their therapy. They had been through many tough seasons… and moves… with their mom but they just kept laughing and leaning on each other. It feels strange for me as a problem solver and educator to write this but maybe the key is to let go of the perfect solution and embrace trial and error.
~Valerie
