How To Transition Your Loved One To A Facility

Dear Everfit,

 

Thank you for sharing the article. Most caregivers need all the help they can find when dealing with issues that surround transitions to a residential facility. Our team frequently counsels callers on how to prepare a reluctant loved one for the move. Some caregivers have tried a technique that involves discussing the new arrangements daily. They have found that, even though the loved one declares refusal during each and every discussion, they are more accepting when the time actually arrives. This is presumably because they have participated in the planning. You can use hypothetical questions to engage their participation, such as "I know you say you won't go, but if you ever did, what photographs would you take to put on your dresser?"

 

 

We strongly endorse social adult day programs for persons living at home. Their beneficial features -- such as engagement in activities and socialization - should improve functioning and prepare a person for transition. The idea reported in the news article you cited -- to use adult day programs to prepare persons for transition--sounds very promising. You will also find an article on adult day programs in care ADvantage AFA's free quarterly magazine for caregivers.

This is great information.  Thanks so much for posting.

 

Anyone else out there have tips on how to help a person make that tough transition to a facility?  

 

Also, you caregivers out there - don't forget to reach out for help for yourselves.  We read time and time again how hard the rol eof the caregiver can be - it takes its toll.  Make certain you have the support you need. 

This is a great post. I am wondering what you do with the patients who are antisocial or have difficult personalities? I don't think social adult program will help as the patients are too old to "change". e.g., my father-in-law who has severe/moderate Alzheimer's is antisocial and he cannot join any adult day program or social programs.