memory care in mexico Archives

Prescribing for the Caregiver

March 20, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

The recognition that a comprehensive care plan must include support for the caregiver, as well as the patient, marks a significant shift in the approach to long-term debilitating diseases. This newfound understanding acknowledges the immense challenges caregivers face as they gradually assume more responsibilities under increasingly difficult circumstances, often to the detriment of their own well-being.

Caregivers, in their unwavering commitment to their loved ones, frequently overlook the personal toll of their role. This oversight can lead to neglected health, household disarray, strained relationships with other family members, diminished job performance, and financial strain as the costs of care and medical treatments mount.

To mitigate these challenges, it’s crucial for caregivers to establish a support network early in their caregiving journey. This network can provide essential assistance and respite, allowing caregivers brief escapes to recharge through simple pleasures like reading at a café, enjoying nature, or socializing with friends.

The importance of selecting an assisted living or memory care facility that recognizes and addresses the needs of both the resident and their caregivers cannot be overstated. Facilities that extend compassion and support beyond the resident to include caregivers and family members can significantly impact the caregiving experience.

In this context, Mexico emerges as a compelling option for senior care. The caregiving ethos in Mexico tends to be warmer, more authentic, and caring compared to the more clinical approach often found in the U.S. This cultural difference can provide a nurturing environment not only for the patient but for the caregiver as well, offering a sense of community and understanding that is deeply valued.

The decision to place a loved one in a facility, particularly when it involves physical distance, such as between the U.S. and Mexico, necessitates a difficult but potentially healthful detachment for the caregiver. This separation can foster a healthier balance, enabling caregivers to start reclaiming aspects of their own lives that may have been sidelined. Transitioning from a full-time caregiver role to a more balanced life requires introspection, support from friends and family, and the courage to prioritize one’s well-being alongside the care of a loved one.

Ultimately, embracing this broader perspective on care—recognizing the caregiver’s needs as integral to the patient’s well-being—can lead to more sustainable caregiving practices, ensuring both the caregiver and the patient are supported throughout their journey.

We have curated some useful caregiver information her

Download the Expatriate Guide for Senior Living in Mexico – For your convenience, the entire 50-page guide is available for download as a PDF. Additionally, give us a call at +1.888.406.7990 or email us at information.cielitolindo@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you.

Financial Matters

March 17, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

Financial management becomes a critical aspect of caregiving, particularly as we confront the complexities of our loved ones’ health decline or the progression of debilitating diseases. The reluctance of loved ones to relinquish control of their finances can complicate matters, often leaving caregivers to untangle confused or neglected financial situations, sometimes exacerbated by scams.

Strategizing Financial Care:

Initiating financial planning early is crucial. This encompasses drafting a budget for potential in-home care, deciding on the mix of family and professional caregivers, and considering the transition to assisted living or memory care facilities. This planning must account for all possible financial support avenues, including health insurance, long-term care insurance, social security, pensions, retirement savings, and the liquidation of assets like real estate.

Navigating Financial Support:

The financial landscape for caregiving is varied, influenced by the care recipient’s age, income, and residence. Long-term care insurance might have been purchased specifically for such needs, but it’s essential to recognize that financial resources may not fully cover preferred care options. As a caregiver, balancing optimal care against financial feasibility requires a long-term perspective to avoid depleting your resources, affecting your post-caregiving life.

Understanding Healthcare Providers:

US Medicare: Does not typically cover assisted living or long-term care facility costs but may cover certain healthcare expenses within these settings. Medicare’s scope is primarily for skilled nursing facilities or home health care.
US Medicaid: Offers coverage for assisted living costs under certain conditions for those with limited income, with coverage details varying by state.
US Private-Payer: Includes long-term care insurance and out-of-pocket payments, often relying on selling property and utilizing savings. Some facilities provide their own funding options.
Expatriate Health Insurance: Specialized for global or country-specific coverage, these plans vary in terms of coverage limits and exclusions for pre-existing conditions and age. Providers like Cigna and Axa cater to expatriates, including those of advanced age, with specific plans for expatriates living in countries like Mexico.
Canadian Healthcare: Offers partial coverage for senior services, with government programs supporting in-home care, assisted living, and long-term care to varying degrees. The cost of long-term care is typically shared between the individual and government, based on income and assets.
Mexican Public Healthcare: The Instituto Mexicano de Seguro Social (IMSS) offers healthcare for employed citizens and expatriates contributing to the system. Coverage quality varies, and while expatriates on a Residente Permanente visa can join, those in assisted living on a Humanitarian Visa may not qualify. IMSS coverage is limited to treatments prescribed by IMSS doctors.

Considering Care in Mexico:

Opting for care in Mexico presents a viable alternative for caregivers, offering a compassionate and personalized approach to senior living. However, navigating the Mexican healthcare system, including understanding the implications of different visas and healthcare coverage options like IMSS, requires careful planning and consideration.

Financial Planning Considerations:

Caregivers must meticulously plan for the financial aspects of caregiving, balancing the desire to provide the best possible care with the realities of financial constraints. Establishing a support network, including trusted advisors and support groups, can provide critical feedback and support throughout the caregiving journey, ensuring caregivers make informed decisions that preserve their well-being and financial stability.

Selecting a Facility

March 15, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

Selecting the right care facility for a loved one is a nuanced process that involves extensive research and a clear understanding of the individual’s needs. The decision criteria will evolve as you gain more insights and encounter new information. Here are some key considerations to guide you through the initial stages of selection:

Facilities: Facility environments vary widely. Some offer a basic, utilitarian setup akin to a hospital, while others provide a more luxurious living space with plush furnishings and warm decor. In Mexico, facilities often embody a homely, expansive aesthetic with Mexican-style decor and more generous outdoor spaces. Additionally, the architectural layout is critical, especially in light of health concerns like virus outbreaks, where the design of U.S. facilities may impede social distancing efforts.
Rooms: Accommodations can range from simple shared rooms, reminiscent of college dormitories, to private suites with comprehensive amenities. Mexican facilities typically offer more spacious and attractively furnished rooms.
Grounds: Outdoor space at assisted living and memory care facilities can vary from non-existent to extensive, landscaped grounds with gardens and walking paths. In Mexico, outdoor living spaces are a significant feature due to the cultural emphasis on outdoor activities.
Staff: Staffing levels and expertise differ, with some facilities only offering part-time access to medical professionals, while others have full-time doctors, psychologists, and therapists on-site. Mexican facilities often boast higher levels of professional staff available on the premises.
Philosophies: The care philosophy is a critical aspect to consider. Some facilities operate minimally, engaging residents with passive activities, while others actively engage each resident with tailored physical and cognitive programs. Facilities in Mexico often lean towards a proactive, preventative care approach.
Costs: The cost of assisted living in the U.S. averages around $5,000 per month, with high-end facilities reaching up to $10,000 per month. More affordable home services could range between $2,500-$3,500 per month. These costs often scale with the level of care required. Conversely, comprehensive assisted living services in Mexico can be secured for under $3,000 per month, often with a flat fee structure that includes the full continuum of care through to hospice.
Care: Understanding the care and treatment available at a facility is vital and should be assessed beyond promotional materials. U.S. facilities tend to be clinical, although some infuse energy and enthusiasm by incorporating interns. Mexican facilities frequently exude a natural warmth and personalized care that may surpass what’s commonly found in the U.S.
Services: Assess whether facilities provide a continuum of care, from independent living through to memory care and hospice. Mexican facilities often offer a comprehensive range of services, allowing for a smoother transition as care needs intensify.

In sum, choosing a care facility for your loved one requires a detailed approach that balances tangible factors such as facilities and costs with intangible elements like care philosophy and staff warmth. The goal is to find a place that not only meets the clinical needs of your loved one but also provides a nurturing and supportive environment for their overall well-being.

Download Assisted Living Checklist – For your convenience, our comprehensive Assisted Living Checklist is available for download as a PDF. Additionally, give us a call at +1.888.406.7990 or email us at information.cielitolindo@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you.

Travel as a Caregiver

March 13, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

Traveling with a loved one who requires care presents unique challenges that demand meticulous planning and preparation. Here’s a detailed guide to consider when organizing such a trip, especially if it involves international destinations.

Crafting the Narrative: Explaining an international journey to a loved one in need of assisted living or memory care requires a tailored approach. The narrative should be shaped by the individual’s cognitive condition and emotional stability. If reasoning capabilities are diminished, the explanation for the trip should be as reassuring and straightforward as possible. The story may vary, but it should always prioritize the comfort and understanding of your loved one.

Medical Preparations: Consulting with a physician is paramount. You’ll need to discuss the trip and obtain any necessary prescriptions to manage anxiety or agitation during travel. Ensure you have a sufficient supply of regular medications, and secure permission for early refills to last the trip’s duration. A doctor’s letter prescribing assisted living or memory care can serve as official documentation of your caregiving role.

Packing Essentials: Use a nested rolling suitcase system for efficient packing and return travel. Pack clothing appropriate for the destination’s climate and leave valuable jewelry at home. Include sentimental items like photographs to help maintain a sense of familiarity. Prepare a carry-on with essentials for the journey, including a change of clothes for emergencies.

Safety Measures: Safety is a primary concern. Carry any sedatives or anti-anxiety medications prescribed by your doctor for emergency use if your loved one becomes distressed. Consider a wearable ID for your loved one with contact information and a brief note explaining their condition. Discreet cards explaining your loved one’s condition and your role can facilitate assistance from others without causing a scene.

Documentation for Facility Admission: Organize a folder with all necessary documents for seamless admission into a care facility. This should include medical records, current prescriptions, a doctor’s letter, and passports.

Seeking and Accepting Assistance: Be open to seeking help during your travels. Whether it’s assistance with bathroom visits or navigating the airport, don’t hesitate to ask for support. Use family restrooms where available to provide assistance privately and comfortably.

Travel Itinerary Planning: Segment the journey into manageable parts. Consider traveling overnight or during off-peak hours to avoid busy airports, which can be less stressful for both you and your loved one. If evening hours are challenging due to conditions like sundowning, an early morning departure might be best. Staying at an airport hotel the night before can ease the stress of early travel and often includes long-term parking and shuttle services. In Mexico, arrange for a private shuttle to the care facility and book a nearby hotel to allow for rest and acclimation before admission.

Each step in this guide is designed to ensure the journey is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, safeguarding the well-being of both you and your loved one. With careful planning, the trip can be a transition toward a new chapter of care and support.

Assisted Living Checklist

March 13, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

There is so much to cover when selecting care facility that it is best to do so with a checklist. Here is an abbreviated checklist. You can download the full checklist as a PDF form from our website at www.CielitoLindoSeniorLiving.com

General Observations

You are greeted and feel welcome?

Staff members are genuinely kind and caring to residents?

Staff call residents by name?

How many living units are there?

Residents appear engaged and happy?

Staff

What is the ratio of staff to residents?

Staff and residents are well-groomed?

Doctor (GP, Gerontologist) on-site full-time?

Psychologist on-site full-time?

Physical Therapist on-site full-time?

Are there qualified staff to administer medications?

Meals

Meals are nutritious and appealing?

Meals may be tuned to individual residents dietary needs?

Do they have a special memory care dining program?

Rooms/Suites/Facilities

Residence is clean and scent-free?

The facilities are aesthetically appealing, warm and inviting?

The layout and floor plan make rooms and communal spaces easy to find?

Do the rooms provide safety, warmth, comfort, privacy and opportunity for personalization?

Are there outdoor spaces that are accessible, warm, beautiful and inviting where residents can enjoy fresh air, sunshine and be able to socialize?

Is the residence cheerful?

Do you feel good about it?

Are stairs and hallways well lit?

Are exits well marked?

Do rooms and bathrooms have handrails and call buttons?

Are there safety locks on the doors and windows?

Are there security and fire safety systems?

Is there an emergency generator or alternate power source?

Is the floor plan logical and easy to follow?

Are the rooms large enough for the resident’s needs?

Temperature is comfortable?

Lighting is good?

Are different sizes and types of units available?

Are all the rooms private?

Are bathrooms private?

Does the residence offer special care units such as those serving people with Alzheimer’s disease?

Activities/Care

There is a robust set of activities that your loved one will enjoy and benefits from?

Is an individual plan of care maintained for each resident? Does that care properly address the unique, physical, cognitive, behavioral and medical needs of each guest

Are the residents and families included in the process of preparing care plans?

What additional services are available if the needs of a resident change?

Who coordinates and supervises outside care-provider visits?

Is there a physician who visits the facility regularly, or better yet, on-site? What about a physical therapist? Psychologist? Gerontologist? Holistic Medical Practitioner?

What is the policy for handling medical emergencies?

Do they have an assisted-living-to-Alzheimer’s care bridge program for early-stage patients?

Do they have walking paths or circular walking paths for residents?

Snoezelen rooms? Or other light treatment?

Do they group residents by cognitive level?

Do they offer pet therapy?

Music therapy?

Reminiscence therapy?

Safety

What is the policy and practices for handling medical emergencies?

What additional services are available if the needs of a resident change?

Handrails are available throughout hallways?

Who coordinates outside care-provider visits?

Exits are clearly marked?

Total Assistance

What sort of efforts are taken to make this entire process easier for the caregiver, family and friends?

Easilty to schedule and conduct video calls

Facilitating relocation, perhaps into associated CCRC?

Regular reports and photos

Helping by offering the lowest costs possible?

Helping to reduce Rx costs with Pharmacy partnership?

Contract

Is a contract available that details fees, services, and admission and discharge policies?

Is the contract easy to read?

Do you understand everything in it?

Are specific services provided by the residence?

Does the contract include all of the services you are looking for?

How frequently are services provided?

What do additional services cost?

Are health care services included?

When and where are meals served?

Which ones?

Does the contract address levels of care? How many?

Are linens/laundry provided?

Are all meals served 7 days a week?

Who determines level of care? Are there services for each level?

Are transportation services provided?

Does the residence offer worship services?

What are the entrance fees?

What is the security deposit?

What is the monthly rent?

Are security deposits refundable?

Are utilities included?

Is telephone included? Long distance?

How are rate increases handled?

Does the contract cover transfer and discharge policies?

Who makes transfer and discharge decisions?

Is the living area held if the resident is in the hospital?

Can you have a pet?

Can you have personal furniture?

Can you come and go at will?

Can personal visitors come and go at will?

Does the contract deny your right to bring legal action against the residence for injury, negligence, or other cause?

Personal Effects and Supplies

March 10, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

Admitting a loved one to a care facility is a significant transition, both for them and for you as the caregiver. To ease this transition, personalizing their new space with familiar items is key to providing comfort and a sense of continuity.

Here is a video about our admission process: click here

Personalizing the New Space:

Familiar Keepsakes: Bring items that hold sentimental value or evoke positive memories, such as family photos, treasured artwork, or a beloved figurine. These items can serve as touchstones to their identity and history, offering reassurance in unfamiliar settings.
Comfort Items: Incorporate favorite pillows, a cherished bedspread, or a cozy throw to create a homely atmosphere. These comforts from home can help alleviate feelings of displacement.
Clothing: A practical selection of clothing should be brought along, considering ease of wear, comfort, and the new environment’s climate. Store additional clothing to rotate as needed for changing seasons or wear.
Room Setup: Many facilities offer flexibility in room decoration. You may be able to bring in furniture, lighting, and rugs to recreate a familiar setting, provided they don’t pose safety risks. Check with the facility about their policies to ensure compliance and discuss any potential concerns about theft or damage.

Ongoing Needs:

Replenishing Supplies: As the initial stock of clothes and supplies diminishes, plan for replenishing these items. This can be done through the facility’s services or personally by you, depending on preference and convenience.
Clothing Management: Label clothing and other personal items to prevent loss. Facilities may have communal laundry services, and labeled items are more likely to be returned to the correct resident. Consider the practicality and ease of laundering when choosing which clothes to bring.
Storage Solutions: Keep additional belongings organized and stored in a way that allows for easy access when it’s time to refresh or replace items in the facility. This could be in a storage unit, a designated space in your home, or an allocated area in the facility if available.

Communication with Facility Staff:

Maintain open communication with the facility staff regarding your loved one’s preferences and needs. Staff can be invaluable in helping you understand the nuances of care in the facility and how to best utilize the space and services available to ensure your loved one feels at home.

By thoughtfully curating the personal effects that accompany your loved one into a care facility, you can significantly reduce the anxiety associated with such a profound change in their living situation. These personal touches not only bring comfort but also reaffirm their individuality and dignity during this next phase of life.

Making the Transition

March 9, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

Transitioning a loved one to an assisted living facility is often emotionally charged, encompassing a breadth of feelings from stress to profound grief. Recognizing that grief is not solely tied to death, but also to significant life changes, is essential. The loss of self-reliance, the familiarity of home, and community can lead to deep-seated feelings of vulnerability and a sense of identity loss.

Embracing the Emotional Journey: It’s critical to give your loved one space and time to process these complex emotions. Encouraging open communication, providing a sympathetic ear, or seeking professional counseling can be beneficial. Allow them the time they need to grieve and adjust to this new chapter in their life.

Facilitating a Smoother Transition: To ease the move:

Prepare in Advance: Begin sorting and packing well before the move date to avoid last-minute stress and rushed decisions.
Set Expectations: Familiarize both yourself and your loved one with the facility beforehand. Understanding what to expect can alleviate anxiety and provide clarity.
Encourage Engagement: Prompt your loved one to participate in activities and socialize within the new community. This engagement is crucial for acclimation and can foster a sense of belonging.
Be Patient: Adjusting to change is highly individual. Support your loved one in their process, but if adjustment seems particularly challenging, encourage discussions with family, facility staff, or friends who can offer additional support.

Supporting the Move: When supporting a loved one’s move:

Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge the upheaval they are experiencing. Avoid downplaying their emotions or pushing an overly positive narrative. Respect and empathy are key.
Maintain Contact: Frequent visits or calls help reassure your loved one of your continued care and involvement in their life. Include them in family gatherings when possible.
Address Concerns Collaboratively: Take any concerns seriously and work together to find solutions. Be prepared to explore alternative options if necessary.
Personalize Their Space: Assist your loved one in making their new space feel like home with cherished items. However, let them guide the process, ensuring it reflects their preferences and comforts.

Advice for Friends and Relatives:

Do:

- Assist with sorting and moving if asked.
- Listen to reminisces and feelings about what’s been left behind.
- Be supportive, even if you disagree with the move.
- Recognize the significance of this life change.
- Keep in touch frequently, especially during the initial period.
- Remain positive and patient, offering smiles and understanding.

Don’t:

- Dominate the moving process or decisions.
- Make the move about your own feelings.
- Dismiss the importance of the decision.
- Trivialize the transition.
- Rush to sell the former home.
- Make unfeasible promises.
- Exude negativity.

A loved one’s move to an assisted living facility is a profound transition for everyone involved. Navigating it with care, empathy, and support can significantly impact their experience, helping them to embrace this new phase with dignity and a sense of continuity.

Staying in Touch

March 8, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

Maintaining contact with a loved one in an assisted living or memory care facility is crucial, and modern technology offers various avenues to ensure consistent and meaningful communication. Facilities that understand the importance of this connectivity often provide resources to help bridge the distance between families and residents.

Some of the more common applications for voice and video calls, beyond the basic telephone, include: Skype, WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, and FaceTime (Apple only).

Communication Pods: The concept of a ‘communication pod’ in a facility is an excellent service, providing residents with access to phones and computers. This dedicated space allows for uninterrupted voice and video calls, which are essential for families who cannot visit in person frequently.

Popular Communication Applications: There are several user-friendly applications that have become staples for virtual communication:

Skype: A widely used platform for video and voice calls, available on multiple devices.
WhatsApp: Offers text, voice, and video calling options, and is particularly popular for international communication due to its encryption and ease of use.
Google Hangouts: A versatile tool for messaging, voice, and video calls, integrated with Google’s suite of services.
FaceTime: An Apple-exclusive application that provides high-quality video calls for users with Apple devices.

Visits and Travel Considerations: While in-person visits are the most intimate form of communication, work, family obligations, and the distance to facilities, especially those abroad, like in Mexico, can make regular visits challenging. In selecting a facility, consider how they might assist with local travel logistics, easing the burden of planning for visits.

Video Calls as a Lifeline: When in-person visits aren’t feasible, video calls become a lifeline, allowing for face-to-face interaction. Ensuring your loved one’s facility supports and facilitates this technology is paramount.

Local Advocacy: Having a local advocate or friend periodically check on your loved one can offer peace of mind. This person can provide updates and perhaps even assist with setting up and facilitating virtual calls.

Relocating to Mexico: For caregivers considering relocation, Mexico presents an attractive option for its beauty and cost-effectiveness. Moving closer to the care facility not only makes visits easier but also allows caregivers to enjoy a favorable climate and lifestyle during their retirement years.

In summary, when geography imposes limitations, technology and a supportive care facility can play significant roles in keeping the channels of communication open. Whether it’s through a dedicated ‘communication pod’, regular video calls, or the support of local friends, it’s essential to remain actively involved in your loved one’s life, ensuring they feel cared for and connected, no matter the distance.

Admission

March 6, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

The admission process is more than just a paperwork formality. Typically, this is where considerable information is gathered and your loved one is assessed to determine if the assisted living or memory care facility is the right place for this individual that is being presented for admission.

Information from the prospective resident’s doctor is gathered and evaluated. This typically includes:

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.

Payments

March 4, 2019

by James Sims ExPat Guide

Payment for services in another country, such as Mexico is a little more complicated than just dealing with the currency exchange rate, although that is something to consider as well. When the exchange rate is particularly good, some people buy CDs in Mexico with various maturity dates. The idea is to get a good return on the money until you need it, yet have it available when needed. Typically, this money is drawn upon when the exchange rates are not as favorable.

One very simple approach towards payments is to write future dated check in US dollars for each month’s rent until your next visit. The same is done for an estimated additional cost covering supplies, prescriptions and so on.

Another approach that is a little more complicated and usually has a fee associated with it is to pay via wire transfer. Some banks, like Schwab, do not charge for wire transfers.

Some thoughtful Mexican assisted living facilities recognize the challenges presented in paying for services in another country. As such, and as part of their ‘total assistance’ philosophy, they are starting to offer other more flexible payment avenues such as Zelle, Venmo, PayPal and credit card. Perhaps they will even accept Bitcoins and Apple Pay in the future.