Family Worries about Memory Care Staffing and Lack of Training
Dear Carol: My dad spent several years in a memory care facility before he died. Overall, the care wasn’t terrible, but we had to operate from the premise that any care facility would be less than perfect. He couldn’t stay home alone. My mom worked full-time, and my brother and I both lived at a distance and had jobs, so we did what we needed to do. Now, Mom is rapidly declining in her cognition. From everything I’ve read about care facilities, they have gone downhill since Dad was in memory care, mostly because adequately staffing them is nearly impossible. Also, caring for someone with dementia relies on good training, caring hearts, and decent pay. None of these assets appear to be part of our current memory care models. I’m not asking you to fix something you have no control over, so I’m not sure why I’m writing except that I need some comfort. Thank you for being there. – CA
Dear CA: I’m saddened for you and your family for what you’ve gone through, and now more challenges are inevitable. Many of my readers will relate to your lack of quality choices. Staffing levels are daunting for nearly all care communities, but training can vary widely. Ideally, every person who provides home care and/or facility care should be someone…
Helpful Tools:
Stay connected with Memoryboard: Designed by caregivers. Memoryboard helps families share reminders, messages, updates, and photos on an easy-to-use screen designed for people with dementia. Peace of mind for families, independence for loved ones.
Wetness indicator and alert to help manage incontinence with dignity. SenecaSense Home: Discreet Support That Restores Comfort and Confidence
Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, has opened up support! View two free caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself).
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love: They save work! Now Available on Amazon.
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories: “…This book is for all of us; let it help you cope! Thank you to the author and everyone she spoke with!” …Dolores
