Family Visits in Memory Care: Creating Comfort and Connection

Visiting a loved one in a memory care community can be an emotional and deeply rewarding experience. These visits offer opportunities to connect, share moments of joy, and provide reassurance to your loved one. However, they may also come with unique challenges, particularly if your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. To make your visits as meaningful and enjoyable as possible, we’ve compiled some tips to help guide you.

Plan Ahead

Before your visit, it can be helpful to check in with the memory care associates to get updates on your loved one’s current mood, preferences, and daily schedule. This ensures you’re visiting at a time when they are most likely to feel comfortable and engaged. Additionally, planning your visit around their routine—such as after meals or during their most alert hours—can make the experience smoother and more positive.

Set Realistic Expectations

Understand that each visit may be different. Your loved one’s mood and memory may fluctuate from day to day. Focus on being present and adaptable rather than expecting a specific outcome. Remember, even if your loved one doesn’t recognize you, the emotions and comfort you bring can still make a significant impact.

Bring Familiar Items

Bringing along personal items, such as family photos, a favorite book, or a cherished keepsake, can help spark recognition and comfort. Familiar objects can also serve as conversation starters and provide a sense of connection. For example, a family photo album can help trigger happy memories, while a familiar blanket or scarf can offer a sense of security.

Engage in Simple Activities

Shared programs can make visits more engaging and less stressful. Consider:

• Listening to their favorite music, as music often evokes strong memories and emotions.
• Reading aloud from a book, newspaper, or even poetry they used to enjoy.
• Looking through photo albums together and reminiscing about past events.
• Doing a simple craft or puzzle that aligns with their interests.
• Taking a short walk or sitting in the garden to enjoy fresh air and nature.

These programs help create moments of joy and connection without requiring extensive conversation. The key is to keep activities simple and tailored to their abilities and interests.

Communicate with Kindness and Patience

When speaking with your loved one:

• Use a calm and reassuring tone to create a sense of safety.
• Make eye contact and smile to foster a connection.
• Keep sentences short and simple, avoiding complex questions or topics.
• Allow extra time for responses, as they may need more time to process your words.
• Avoid correcting or arguing if they say something that isn’t accurate.

Focus on the emotions behind their words rather than the accuracy of their statements. For example, if they speak about an event that didn’t happen, respond to the feelings they express rather than correcting the details.

Be Mindful of Nonverbal Cues

Pay attention to your loved one’s body language and facial expressions. If they seem agitated, restless, or tired, it may be time to shift activities or gently end the visit. Nonverbal cues can often provide valuable insights into their comfort level and emotional state.

Involved Younger Family Members

Children and grandchildren can bring joy and energy to visits. Encourage them to interact through simple, non-verbal activities like drawing pictures, showing them a toy, or sharing a song. Prepare them beforehand to ensure they understand dementia and feel comfortable. This can also be a wonderful way for younger generations to bond with their loved ones and create lasting memories.

Keep Visits Short and Sweet

It’s better to have a brief, positive visit than a long one that leaves your loved one feeling overwhelmed. Pay attention to signs that they may need a break, such as restlessness, confusion, or fatigue. Ending on a positive note helps ensure the visit is remembered as a happy experience.

Ask for Support

If you’re unsure how to make the most of your visit, don’t hesitate to ask the memory care staff for guidance. They can provide insights into what your loved one enjoys, suggest suitable activities, and share strategies for meaningful interaction. Their expertise can help you navigate challenging moments and create more fulfilling visits.

Practice Self-Care

Caring for a loved one with memory loss can be emotionally taxing. Be sure to take care of yourself, too. Share your experiences with friends, join a support group, or speak with a counselor if needed. Remember, maintaining your well-being enables you to provide better support and enjoy more meaningful interactions with your loved one.

Additional Tips for a Successful Visit

• Use Visual Aids: If verbal communication becomes difficult, use gestures, photos, or objects to communicate.
• Avoid Overstimulation: Keep the environment calm and quiet to reduce confusion or anxiety.
• Focus on the Present: Instead of asking questions about the past, engage in activities or conversations centered around the present moment.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Appreciate the small moments of connection, such as a smile, laugh, or shared memory.

Creating Lasting Moments at Maplewood Senior Living

While visits to memory care can come with challenges, they also provide opportunities to create beautiful, lasting memories. By approaching each visit with patience, understanding, and love, you can make a meaningful difference in your loved one’s day — and your own.

At Maplewood Senior Living, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or need assistance planning your visits, don’t hesitate to reach out to our compassionate team. Together, we can ensure your loved one feels valued, supported, and connected.