The Population Reference Bureau estimates that by 2030, there will be approximately 2.3 million Americans aged 65 and older who require special care. The Baby Boomer generation is living longer than their predecessors, making it more likely that their adult children will need to find ways to care for them. For some, that means intergenerational living. For others, it means finding a loving, supportive community where their loved ones can thrive.
For those who find themselves in the position of having to care for an older loved one, New Perspective offers some guidance on getting started and avoiding caregiver burnout.
The Role of Senior Living Communities in Supporting Caregivers
Senior living communities like New Perspective are changing the way we think about senior care. Long gone are the days when the only option for seniors who couldn’t live at home was nursing homes that offered little in the way of socialization and stimulation.
These days, there are more options than ever for our older loved ones. Independent living communities are designed for healthy and active older adults who want to stay social but are ready to give up the demands of home ownership. Assisted living offers levels of care designed to help those who can mostly live independently but may require some help. And memory care communities are specially designed to address the needs of those with cognitive challenges.
These options provide caregivers with the peace of mind they deserve, knowing their loved ones are thriving in the best places for their needs and lifestyles.
Understanding the Challenges Faced by Caregivers
As caregivers, we know you face certain challenges in taking care of your older loved one.
- Time constraints: Caring for your senior while managing your personal and professional responsibilities can be overwhelming. Senior living communities have professionals who can manage your loved one’s daily care so you can regain your time.
- Emotional and physical stress: The demands of caregiving can lead to your own health issues. Entrusting loved ones to senior living communities helps reduce your daily stress and improve your health.
- Lack of expertise: Sometimes, caring for a loved one requires specialized knowledge and skills. Senior living communities employ experienced and trained professionals to deliver the care your older adult needs.
Providing a Supportive Environment
Senior living communities at all levels of care are designed to meet the needs of older adults.
Professional Care
Most communities have specialized professionals on staff, from chefs who cook nutritious meals to physical therapists and maintenance staff.
Safe Environments
These communities are designed with safety in mind. There are often general community safety features, such as nighttime security guards, as well as personal safety features, like emergency call buttons.
Memory care communities are built with extra safety features designed to prevent wandering and enhance therapeutic benefits.
Round-the-Clock Assistance
Professionals at senior communities are available 24/7 to assist residents with personal hygiene tasks, medication reminders, and other daily needs. You can rest assured that when your loved one needs help, they will get it in a compassionate and timely manner.
Emotional and Practical Support for Caregivers
As we touched on above, caregiving for aging loved ones often brings significant emotional and physical challenges, which can lead to stress, burnout, and feelings of isolation for the caregiver. To address these issues, many senior living communities have implemented support systems for caregivers. They might offer group therapy sessions that offer a safe space for you and your peers to share coping strategies and connect with one another.
Additionally, one-on-one counseling services are sometimes available through your loved one’s community to help you cope. There may be respite care options that provide you with breaks to prevent burnout. Senior living communities can also connect caregivers to local support groups and resources for their caregiving journey.
Specialized Support for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Caregivers
Sometimes, our loved ones require extra support in dealing with the cognitive challenges of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. When this is the case, it’s more important than ever to make sure they get the specialized care they need to stay safe and healthy. That’s where memory care communities come in.
Memory Care Programs and Expert Staff
Memory care programs, such as the ones at New Perspective, are designed for the needs of our most vulnerable residents. These needs might include:
- Wandering
- Incontinence
- Repetitive speech or actions
- Agitation
- Paranoia
- Sleeplessness/sundowning
We know how stressed and helpless you may feel when facing these advanced challenges in your older loved one. That’s why memory care communities are designed to help them live their best lives while staying safe and engaged. Memory care communities include:
- Non-intimidating living spaces
- Supervision
- Chef-designed meals
- Exercise programs
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- Emergency call systems
- Housekeeping and laundry service
- Social activities and programs
- Secure courtyards
You’ll enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in good hands.
Tailored Resources for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers
The most important thing to remember as a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia is that you’re not alone. There are support systems in place to help you cope. Some of these may even be offered by your loved one’s memory care community.
Educational Workshops and Programs
Educational workshops provide you with the knowledge and skills to manage your daily caregiving tasks effectively. The Alzheimer’s Association offers free online programs covering topics such as understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia, effective communication strategies, and managing behavioral changes. These resources are accessible 24/7, allowing caregivers to learn at their own pace.
Support Groups
Support groups create a safe, confidential, and supportive environment for caregivers to share experiences and receive encouragement. Check your city, county, or state’s department of elderly services for support groups near you.
Care Consultations
Personalized care consultations offer in-depth guidance tailored to the specific needs of individuals with dementia and their families.
Online Training and Resources
The Alzheimer’s Association’s Training and Education Center offers free online courses designed for caregivers like you. These courses cover a range of topics, including daily care strategies, legal and financial planning, and understanding dementia-related behaviors.
Additional Support
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) offers a national toll-free helpline staffed by licensed social workers trained in dementia care. This service provides caregivers with support, information, and referrals to local resources.
How Senior Living Communities Foster Long-Term Caregiver Relationships
Senior living communities are designed to nurture partnerships with caregivers for your loved one’s reliable and comprehensive support. These relationships are developed through thoughtful communication, collaborative care approaches, and adaptable services that respond to the evolving needs of both residents and their families.
Communication and Collaboration with Families
Open communication between senior living community staff and family members builds trust and ensures quality care. There should be regular updates on your loved one’s health and activities to keep you informed and involved in care decisions. For example, there may be scheduled family meetings to discuss care plans and address concerns.
Evolving Services to Meet Caregiver Needs
Continuing care senior communities are designed to adapt their services to meet the changing needs of residents. This adaptability includes offering a continuum of care options within the same community. In this way, caregivers can be sure their loved ones are getting the care they need in every stage of life without having to constantly move to new places.
Promoting Social Connections and Community Engagement
Senior living communities also encourage social connections and community engagement, both inside and out. They provide organized social events and activities for residents and their families with the goal of building strong relationships and engagement.
Find the Caregiver Support You Need with New Perspective
New Perspective believes in a holistic approach to caring for our residents. That includes working with – and sometimes helping – their friends and family, too.
Our staff is committed to ensuring your loved one is well looked after so you don’t have to manage their needs by yourself. We’ll communicate with you every step of the way so you always know what’s going on.
We offer independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities that cater to a wide variety of lifestyles and needs. For more information or to discuss the options available, feel free to contact us. We’re here to support you and your loved one in every stage of life.