Moved to MC

Norma W

Hi All.

We had to make the difficult decision to move our LO to a memory care facility.  We took her two weeks ago and luckily we didn't have to wait a long time to go visit.  I have heard that some places make you wait 10 days - 2 weeks so they can get used to the new routine.

We're happy with the place we chose.  The staff is very nice and the place is clean.  I find that you do have to check behind them and make sure clothes are clean, belongings are in the room, etc.  

My question to those that have/had LO's in MC is this:  I'd like to do something nice for the staff in the MC unit from time to time.  Does anyone have any suggestions?  I'm sure these folks aren't paid what they're worth, and with the holidays coming up I'd like to do a little something for them.

Thanks

SusanB-dil

Glad she seems to be settling in well and that you found a great place. I know both those issues must be a 'sigh of relief' for you.

As for any gifts, maybe food items that all shifts could partake? A jar of candies, or good batch of home-made cookies, perhaps? depending on shift situation, individually wrapped somethings.

My part-time job is retail. Last year was a bit rough and a lot of us had to fill-in when others were out.  I put together lavender Epsom-salt into zip-bags (you could even put lavender buds in it), just enough for one good foot-soak in each bag (I used 'snack-size'), with an instruction card attached to dump it into just enough warm water for a foot-soak.  On the other side of the instruction card, I put a little greeting.  (I put that we were hoping 2021 would be better, but it could be a note of 'thanks')

Another year I put 'simmering potpourri mix' into zip-bags.  Attached instruction card/greeting...  Many recipes on-line.

I would just make sure enough for everyone...

ladyzetta

Hi Norma,

When my DH was in MC I would take in packaged cookies I would get from BiMart. BiMart also had a box of cinnamon rolls all wrapped separately I think there was 20 to the box. For Christmas I got each one of them a small box of candy. I remembered all shifts, I did not know everyone on all the shifts but they all had part in caring for my DH. Thank You for being a caring person they will all appreciate that. Hugs Zetta 

MN Chickadee

I've done a variety of things for the staff to show appreciation. When I visit I often bring a box of bakery goods or fruit, I have ordered pizza delivered for each shift. During covid lockdown when I couldn't go in I would send pre-made gift baskets like from Costco. Around the holidays I make treat bags for each person to take home with goodies and if money allows you might put in a $5 gift card to a local grocery store or coffee shop or something. Locally made artisan products always make great gifts that may be a splurge for someone just trying to pay the bills. You are correct, the workers most MC facilities are under paid and over worked. Showing them you care and see the important work they do is a good thing.

Dave Cahail

I always donate the AL/MC Employee Christmas Fund but also bring by a box of chocolates. I also try to thank staff members personally as sometimes it isn't the gift but the acknowledgement and gratitude that counts just as much.