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New to memory care(1)

Hi all:

I'm brand new to this message board. My mom, 88 yr old was in assisted living for almost three years and recently moved to memory care in the same facility (three weeks ago). Her dementia (unspecified) seems to be rapidly advancing by the week. Twice the caregivers couldn't calm her down and have called me, with my mom in a panic. Does anyone else struggle with institutional caregivers who sometimes can't calm the resident?

It stresses me out and I'm constantly worried about the panicked calls.

Maya

Comments

  • sandwichone123
    sandwichone123 Member Posts: 770
    500 Comments 100 Insightfuls Reactions 100 Likes Third Anniversary
    Member

    Maya,

    Different facilities have different policies. Does your mom have a doctor, or does the facility have a doctor that can prescribe her something to reduce her stress? If you think about it, being moved somewhere you don't know, surrounded by people who get into your personal space would be stressful even for someone who could process it all normally. I hope you find a solution soon.

  • MBhave
    MBhave Member Posts: 2
    First Comment First Anniversary
    Member

    Thank you for your reply. yes, I agree it must be overwhelming to her. Her dr. did prescribe some meds, which - when given - do calm her. I know this is a new journey ...and I appreciate your kind words

  • dayn2nite2
    dayn2nite2 Member Posts: 1,135
    Eighth Anniversary 1000 Comments 25 Insightfuls Reactions 25 Likes
    Member
    I'm sure the move has disoriented her and caused a great deal of anxiety, as even her caregivers are probably different.  Are they actually giving her the medications when she needs them or are they scheduled regularly during this time of extra stress?  They really shouldn't be calling you to calm her - I would have a discussion with a nurse or her physician about what's happening here - but first I would make sure they are administering the calming medication and allowing it to work before rushing to call you.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
Read more