Living in a memory care community can substantially improve the quality of life of an older adult living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia and also create peace of mind for caregivers and family members. Unfortunately, the transition to memory care, whether from a lifelong home or from an assisted living community, can be incredibly emotional and somewhat challenging for everyone involved.
When the time comes, it’s a complicated conversation to have and potentially a stressful decision to make. Reducing the tension associated with moving to a new place and receiving a higher level of care is likely a priority. Follow these tips for how to minimize any unnecessary discomfort with transitioning to a memory care neighborhood.
1. Talk About the Upcoming Change
As you begin the conversation about a potential upcoming move, try to anticipate concerns that your aging friend or family member may have, and be ready to listen with an open mind. Encourage them to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences and to ask whatever might be important in the moment and at any point in the process.
Active listening can lessen any anxiety they may be experiencing and lead to less confusion and fewer incorrect assumptions about the reasons for the move and what their next chapter could be. Reassure them that you will be there to support them every step of the way.
Joining a support group geared toward both older adults living with dementia and their families and friends can be a helpful way to connect with others in similar life transitions. This type of support group is commonly referred to as a memory café and can enhance coping skills in a safe, socially engaging environment with people who genuinely understand and care.
The memory care team members can be a helpful resource, as they are expertly trained professionals that support families in similar situations on a daily basis. You can also connect with professional counselors or social workers who specialize in working with older adults. Professionals can offer valuable strategies to make the transition easier, including teaching relaxation techniques if your friend or family member becomes anxious.
2. Visit Frequently or Try a Respite Care Stay or Adult Day Care Service
One way to help reduce the anxiety your loved one may be experiencing is to schedule a series of visits with the memory care community you have chosen. This helps them become familiar with the new environment and meet the team members and other residents.
At The Bristal, we encourage visitors, including seniors and their family, to tour our communities, participate in events, and get to know the staff members and their potential new neighbors.
Some communities also offer respite or adult day services, which provide the same memory care services to non-residents.
3. Communicate Openly with the Memory Care Team
Meet with team members and ask a lot of questions to find the memory care community that is the best fit. Then, it’s essential to keep the conversation going throughout the move-in process. Keep an open line of communication with the memory care team so they can assist you in making the transition as smooth as possible.
Most memory care communities ask families to provide detailed information about the resident before the move, including their likes, dislikes, interests, hobbies, and what makes them unique.
Consider sharing the following information with the memory care team:
- Their profession before retirement.
- Their favorite music genres.
- Their current daily routine, including the times when they are most engaged.
- Their current interests and hobbies, as well as past hobbies they enjoyed.
- Things that help them feel calm and secure.
4. Fill Their New Space with Familiar Things
When transitioning to memory care, it's important to make the new environment feel like home for the individual. To achieve this, you can:
- Bring in a favorite piece of furniture, such as a chair or small table.
- Decorate the room with photos of family and friends, or bring along old photo albums.
- Place familiar, small items or meaningful trinkets in the living space.
- Bring a favorite blanket, throw pillow, or stuffed animal to make their living space comfortable and familiar.
5. Expect Bumps in the Road
It's tough to make changes at any age, but it can be especially challenging for those living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Seniors experiencing cognitive decline may go through a range of behavioral and mood-related symptoms during transitions like moving. They might become more irritable, anxious, or agitated.
The memory care team is committed to ensuring the safety, quality of life, and overall well-being of residents in their care. They will provide support to both you and your loved one during this significant life change.
Understanding your friend or family member's limitations and anticipating challenges will better prepare you to respond with patience and understanding when difficulties arise. Taking things slowly will give your loved one ample time to adjust, and maintaining a positive attitude will help reassure them during the move.
Find More Memory Care Resources at The Bristal Blog
Our blog is full of valuable tips, resources, and tools to help you in your journey as a caregiver to someone living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Read this checklist on what to pack for a move to memory care, or follow these tips when traveling with someone living with dementia.
