Key Takeaways:
- Visits don’t have to be a performance. The simplest actions can be the most impactful.
- Embrace your loved one’s reality for a deeper connection.
- Being fully present is what’s most important.
- Prioritise self-care and don’t be afraid to seek support.
- Hold on to the joyful moments in your visits.
- Share memories and create a bridge to the past.
- Connect with others in similar situations.
If you’re reading this, you may find yourself in the often chaotic but rewarding role of the “sandwich generation” – balancing the demands of caring for ageing parents while being there for your own family, managing your career and striving to maintain a sense of self. It’s a lot to navigate, especially when your loved one is someone living with dementia. At Group Homes Australia, we want to shed light on the experience of visiting your loved one living in one of our homes. This isn’t just about physically crossing the threshold; it’s about being present in every sense of the word.
Release the Pressure to Perform
When visiting a loved one living with dementia, it’s crucial to remember that you don’t need to fill every silence with conversation or engage in elaborate activities. Often, the simplest interactions – a hand to hold, a shared cup of tea or watching their favourite show together – can be the most impactful. Your presence is the true gift; it doesn’t have to be a performance.
Meet Them Where They Are
When you visit a loved one in permanent care, embrace their reality, no matter how challenging. If they recount the same story for the fifth time, lean in and listen as if for the first time. Extend your love and compassion regardless of whether they don’t recall who you are. This gentle meeting of them where they are can foster a deeper connection.
If it’s time to think about a different type of care, visit our permanent care page to learn more about the dementia aged care services available to support your loved one.
Enquire nowCherish the Small Moments
When you’re looking after elderly parents, a five-minute visit where you show up fully present means far more than an hour spent distracted, checking your phone or lost in thought. Allow the little moments – shared smiles, soft laughter or even comfortable silence – to be the metrics of a successful visit. These fleeting exchanges often hold the most meaning.
Prioritise Your Mental Health and Wellbeing
Caring for elderly parents living with dementia can be emotionally taxing. It’s essential to prioritise your own self-care and acknowledge when visiting triggers deep sadness or burnout. Remember, your feelings are valid and it’s okay to take a step back and take care of yourself. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness, but a necessary part of the caregiving journey. Seeking emotional support from care managers or support groups can provide comfort and help you cope with the challenges of caregiving.
Find the Joy Amidst Challenges
There will certainly be tough days when you’re wondering how to cope with ageing parents, but within them, there are also opportunities for joy. A song that sparks a cherished memory can light up the moment, reminding you of the joy that can be found in the small moments. Hold onto these joyful instances – they matter significantly in the grand scheme of your visits and can uplift your spirits.
Sometimes a loved one with dementia just needs some temporary care. Find out more about respite care.
Enquire nowThe Power of Storytelling
It’s also important to remember the power of storytelling. Sharing memories, even if your loved one may not fully grasp them, can create a bridge to the past and evoke emotions that transcend the challenges of memory loss. Storytelling can help maintain a sense of identity and connection for your loved one, and it can also be a source of comfort and joy for both of you.
Consider bringing along photographs or mementos that spark a smile or a reaction. These items can serve as tangible connections to shared experiences, igniting conversations that bring warmth to your visit.
Engaging in this way not only honours their history but also allows you to reminisce and reflect on the beautiful moments you’ve shared, reinforcing the bond you continue to cherish. In navigating this journey, embrace creativity in connecting through music, art or even simple gestures to cultivate joy and meaning in every interaction.
Community and Connection
As you continue to navigate the complexities of caring for a loved one with dementia, don’t underestimate the value of community and connection with others in similar situations. Joining a support group can provide a safe space to share your feelings, experiences and challenges, helping to alleviate the sense of isolation that often accompanies caregiving.
Listening to the stories of others who understand what you’re going through can offer new perspectives and practical strategies, reminding you that you are not alone in this journey.
Additionally, building a network of support can create opportunities for much-needed breaks and self-care, allowing you to recharge and return to your visits with renewed energy and compassion. Whether through formal groups or informal friendships, embracing this communal aspect can transform your experience, making it richer and more manageable.
Understanding Ageing Care Through GHA
As you navigate caring for elderly parents, Group Homes Australia stands ready to support you and your loved ones. Our model offers compassionate accommodation for individuals living with dementia, tailored to foster meaningful engagement and individual wellbeing.
When it comes to caring for elderly parents or people with dementia, every visit holds the potential to be a cherished moment. Your journey may sometimes feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
If you’re searching for professional dementia care or exploring options for permanent care for your loved one, our dedicated team is here to assist you. We also provide respite care options for caregivers seeking a temporary break, ensuring everyone’s needs are respected.
Contact us today for more information about our approach to permanent dementia care. Together, we can foster a supportive environment for your loved ones, allowing them to thrive in their new home while you find the balance you need in your life.
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