At Ciel Senior Living we understand that you, just like your loved one, are going through a life changing transition. When your loved one moves out of the home, you have to deal with many emotions plus a change in your role as caregiver. Our goal is to make that process as comfortable as possible – for both of you.
We are here to listen, to share, and to care
We encourage all our families to attend our monthly support group that is specifically for the families of our residents. Contact the community for the date and time of our next support group meeting. Please join us – you’ll be a welcome addition!
Understanding your emotions
Alzheimer’s Disease or dementias may cause feelings of grief in a caregiver. You may feel emotions such as anger, depression, anxiety and guilt after placing your loved one in a memory care community. Sometimes placement is viewed as personal failure, especially to those who have been hands-on caregivers or have promised their loved one they would “never” put him/her in a nursing/senior living home. You may feel that you should be able to continue caring for your family member no matter how difficult the situation. Our caregivers are uniquely trained to engage your loved one in meaningful interaction, honoring her values and familiar roles. Feelings of grief, guilt and relief may play a part in your decision to place your loved one in a Memory Care Community. Those feelings are quite common. At Ciel, we are here to ease the transition – for you and your loved one. Surrounding your spouse with professionals who are trained to care for your loved one is a selfless act. You will continue to be involved in medication and level of care concerns. You are “still the one,” and no one lights up your loved one’s life like you, so visit often and cherish those moments.
Placement positives
Take time to enjoy the positives that placement in our community will offer. You have more quality time with your loved one because our caregivers are doing the day-to-day physical care. You may finally have a chance to catch up on the sleep you’ve been missing and, therefore, are in a better mood when visiting. You will have peace of mind knowing that your loved one is getting 24-hour care and you can focus on your own health needs. Placement benefits you and your loved one.
- Acknowledge your feelings. Anger and guilt may be normal parts of the transition process. Forgive yourself for any feelings of failure. There are no perfect caregivers.
- Remember it will take your loved one time to adjust; it is important to remember why you chose placement.
- Give your relationship time to adjust. You are still an important part of your loved one’s life.
- Take care of yourself. Allow time for physical exercise, rest and play. Nurture yourself.
- Reconnect with friends; surround yourself with supportive people.
- Attend support groups. It is important to get support from people who understand and can sympathize with your situation.
