My mom has been in MC for a month now. One of the parishioners of her church spoke to my dad and he told them about her move and dementia. Now I’m getting calls from the members that want to visit her and bring her gifts. All overwhelming. I am being very kind with them but it’s getting very intrusive and pushy. My mom is starting to get used to the MC and I don’t want to aggravate her. Ideas to help fend them off would be appreciated.
Update from the horse’s mouth!
OP’s mom is NOT going to be receiving any visits from anyone other than family!
"Thank you for your care and concern. My mom, xxx, needs time now to adjust at the facility, and with family. We appreciate your prayers and good thoughts. We will keep you updated."
"This is an 'adjustment period,' and she needs time to get more comfortable with her new surroundings/environment." And
"The family all appreciates your concern and caring. We will let you know when it is appropriate to visit, when she can handle more stimuli, without getting agitated." (In case they do not know that she is / could get agitated).
I wouldn't go into long stories.
* Ask them to send cards - with pretty pictures / photos so when you are there, you can show them to her and talk about them.
Gena / Touch Matters
Tell them you'd be happy to give mom their gifts, but she needs time to adjust.
If they press... then all niceness is out the window