For many individuals with memory-impairing conditions such as dementia, there may come a time when they need professional support and guidance to live safely and independently. One of the most challenging aspects this may bring is the transition from living with home care to a memory care community. If your family has decided to relocate your loved one to a memory care community, here’s how to help your loved one move to memory care as smoothly as possible.
Understand Your Loved Ones’ Needs
If you aren’t confident about your decision to move your loved ones to a memory care community, chances are that they won’t feel confident either. On the other hand, being confident about the move will empower your loved ones to trust your decision. When communicating with your loved ones about moving to memory care, focus on how it can meet their needs more effectively. For example, you can explain how a memory care community can fulfill their need for safety, social engagement, or stimulation.
Remain Positive
Dementia and other similar conditions can impair your loved ones’ reasoning and processing skills, which is why you should tread carefully when explaining the decision of relocating to a memory care community to them. You should avoid making statements that can confuse and distress your loved ones that can make them doubt how successfully the transition will be, including:
- Implying that you’re upset about the relocation. (“So sad to see you move out!”)
- Blowing the situation out of proportion, such as making it seem more permanent. (“This is your new home!”)
- Creating confusion about their safety. (“This house is not safe for you” as a reason for the move.)
Instead, focus on the positives of entering a memory care community, such as access to freshly-cooked meals, meeting new people, and having a living space to themselves.
Appreciate Your Loved Ones’ Input
Moving to a memory care community should be a collaborative effort, rather than a sudden change sprung onto your loved ones. Without their input, your loved ones will be much more accepting and optimistic about the transition to memory care, knowing that you’re listening to their opinions whether good or bad. Giving your loved ones the space to talk about their anxieties gives you more opportunity to alleviate their worries when responding to them.
Take Advantage of Advice and Resources
An informed decision is a confident decision! Regardless of which stage of the transition you and your loved ones are on, it never hurts to listen to professionals’ advice and opinions. Thankfully, memory care professionals are accessible through senior living community tours, blogs, and other lines of contact, and most will be happy to help. Furthermore, you’ll feel much better being able to put faces to the team responsible for your loved ones’ everyday care.
Our Memory Care Community in Louisiana
If you’re looking for a memory care community in Louisiana for your aging loved ones, consider our Memory Care program at The Trace! Schedule a senior living tour with us today to explore our senior living community for yourself!
