3 Ways to Help Your Parent Adjust to Their Assisted Care Center
Making the adjustment to a senior assisted care center after living in their own homes for most of their adult lives can be very challenging for some elderly folks. If your parent is having a hard time getting along or is even combative in this new environment, you need to intervene quickly, for the sake of your parent and of the staff trying so hard to care for your parent. It's not an easy predicament to find yourself in; however, there are some things you can do.
1. Speak with the Administrator Right Away
You want to immediately make known your knowledge and concern for your parent's actions so that the administrators and other key staff members are aware of your involvement. Ask for their advice (as they've most likely dealt with similar difficulties in the past) and commit to solving the problem together. While your parent's gripes need to be heard and addressed, you also want the assisted care center to know that you are actively working to resolve issues, for everyone's sake.
2. Let Your Parent Air Their Grievances with You
Even if your mom or dad is staying in the most beautiful and accommodating residential care center, it's still very different from what they are used to. Neighbors, HVAC systems, food, and more can make the transition somewhat precarious, and more for some than for others. Try and see things from your parent's point of view, making any appropriate changes you're able to and allowing them to vent to you, either in person or on the phone. Airing their complaints should offer some relief, and it will make you aware of anything that may need to be addressed, if possible.
3. Ask Your Parent to Talk to a Therapist, If Needed
Most especially if an elderly resident becomes disrespectful, aggressive, or combative in any type of care facility, a lot of red flags will go up. Such information could become a permanent mark on rental records, making finding a new home hard. Since you want your parent to be able to live peacefully and happily wherever they are, going to a therapist may not be as extreme as it first sounds, especially to them. Adjusting to major life changes is hard for anyone, but your mom or dad may feel like they've lost a lot, including people or things they'll never have back, and that can lead to anxiety, even if they've never experienced it before. Therapy could be well worth the effort, leading to a greater understanding and ability to cope with many things that your parent finds challenging.
The safety and security of your elderly parent is far too important to risk losing, but if they're becoming a problem for the staff at a senior assisted care center, that's exactly what's at stake. Neither you nor they want to be left with a housing crisis, so quick and decisive action is necessary. Make a plan and work closely with the center's personnel to help your parent make the necessary adjustments. Hopefully, given a little time and a lot of TLC, your mom or dad will settle down and settle in, enjoying the caring, attentive, and nurturing environment around them.
Contact a senior assisted care center for more information or assistance.
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