Visiting your parent in a nursing home, memory care, or senior living community is a good way to continue building and nurturing your relationship.
While each person’s needs are unique, visiting once or twice a week is a good guideline for providing meaningful connections without overwhelming your parent—or yourself. However, frequency can vary based on your parent’s personality, health, and your own availability. More than anything, being around your loved one benefits both of you.
Visiting Your Senior Parent in Memory Care
For many families, visiting once or twice a week strikes a good balance between giving your loved one time to settle into their routine and offering valuable, supportive companionship. Some families find shorter, more frequent visits ideal, while others may choose longer visits once a week.
Some people may benefit from shorter visits more often, while others thrive on occasional extended visits. Schedule visits on a timeline that works for you and your parent.
Fairways at Naples is a memory care community, not a nursing home, but the same guidelines apply to any type of community.
In a memory care community, you’ll often find specialized support that provides your parent with enriching routines, memory-stimulating activities, and compassionate care. This structure promotes mental and emotional wellness, making it easier for family members to participate in meaningful ways without feeling pressured to be constantly present.
What’s the Difference Between Memory Care & Skilled Nursing?
Memory care and skilled nursing are 2 distinct types of senior care, each addressing specific needs.
Memory care focuses primarily on helping those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia maintain their quality of life in a structured, supportive environment. Memory care communities, like Fairways at Naples, offer personalized activities, structured routines, and safe spaces tailored to the needs of those experiencing memory loss. The goal is to help them maintain a sense of independence, routine, and comfort.
Skilled nursing, on the other hand, addresses a broader range of medical needs, often accommodating seniors who require more intensive medical assistance or who may be recovering from an illness or surgery. Skilled nursing care includes services like wound care, physical therapy, and daily medical monitoring, and it’s staffed by licensed nurses who ensure that residents receive the necessary medical attention.
A key distinction is that memory care emphasizes mental wellness, behavioral support, and cognitive therapy, while skilled nursing focuses more heavily on physical and medical needs. Memory care communities aren’t nursing homes in the traditional sense; rather, they’re specifically equipped for the nuances of dementia care, providing the security and specialized services needed to help residents maintain as much independence and quality of life as possible.
Because of this tailored approach, memory care communities are often more appropriate for those whose primary challenges stem from cognitive changes rather than physical health needs requiring medical intervention.
Is Skilled Nursing the Same as a Nursing Home?
While often used interchangeably, “skilled nursing” and “nursing home” aren’t exactly the same. Skilled nursing refers to a level of care that involves medical professionals, like nurses and therapists, to provide ongoing healthcare to residents who may be recovering from a hospital stay or need intensive care for chronic illnesses. Skilled nursing is usually one of several types of care offered within a nursing home.
Ways to Support Your Parent in Memory Care
In addition to visiting regularly, there are meaningful ways to support your parent in memory care. These small gestures can enhance their experience and help you feel connected even when you’re not with them.
Bring Personal Mementos
Bring familiar items from your loved one’s life to make their space feel like home. Photos, favorite books, or familiar décor can create a comforting, personal atmosphere in their room. These items can spark memories and provide a sense of continuity.
Share Favorite Music
Many memory care communities encourage families to share music that resonates with their loved ones. Familiar tunes can help stimulate memory, lift mood, and bring joy to daily life. Creating a playlist of their favorite songs or artists can make a wonderful gift.
Engage in Activities Together
Join your parent for an activity their community provides, like a puzzle, art project, or outdoor stroll. Engaging in these activities can help them feel supported and allow you to share their daily experiences.
Explore Memory Care Options at Fairways at Naples
Fairways at Naples is a senior living community dedicated to providing compassionate, specialized support for seniors. If you’re exploring memory care options, contact us to learn more about our approach to enriching and dignified memory care. We’re here to answer any questions and help you find the best path forward for your family.
