Admission

Comprehensive Medical Evaluation:

• Historical and Current Medical Information: A thorough review of past and present medical records, including any psychiatric or therapy notes, is essential. This historical context provides insight into the progression of any medical conditions and the effectiveness of past treatments.

• Doctor’s Letter: A letter from the current physician, especially if they are recommending the care facility, is a critical component. It typically outlines the necessity for assisted living or memory care and may suggest specific care requirements based on the doctor’s longstanding knowledge of the patient.

• Prescriptions and Supplements: A detailed list of current medications, vitamins, dietary needs, and any holistic or over-the-counter treatments the resident is undergoing is crucial for maintaining continuity of care and ensuring no interruption to their regimen.

• Caregiver-Provided Medical Details: The caregiver’s input on allergies, previous surgeries, injuries, and other pertinent medical history helps paint a complete picture of the resident’s health status.

Formulating a Care Plan:

Using the gathered information, the facility’s medical team will conduct physical and psychological assessments to establish a tailored care plan that addresses all aspects of the resident’s health and well-being, including physical care, emotional support, cognitive activities, dietary needs, and medication management.

Navigating the Emotional Journey:

• Acknowledging Reality: Each step in the admission process can bring the caregiver face-to-face with the stark reality of their loved one’s situation. It can solidify the gravity of the decision to transition to facility care.

• Touring Facilities: Visiting potential facilities can elicit a mix of emotions, from hope about the quality of care available to anxiety about the changes it will bring to your loved one’s life.

• The Admission: The act of admission is often when the situation becomes tangible. It’s a definitive step in acknowledging that a new chapter in the loved one’s care is beginning.

• Returning Home Alone: For many caregivers, leaving their loved one in the care of others and returning to an emptier home is profoundly impactful. It’s a vivid reminder of the change in both the caregiver’s and the resident’s daily lives.

It’s important to recognize these steps as significant emotional markers, not just for the resident, but also for the caregiver. Support, whether through family, friends, counseling, or caregiver support groups, is crucial during this time. It’s vital for caregivers to acknowledge their feelings, seek support, and allow themselves time to adjust to the new dynamics. The admission process, therefore, is a critical convergence of clinical diligence and emotional transition, marking a new phase in the journey of care.