Roughly one in every seven seniors in America is affected by some form of dementia. For many of these older adults, memory care is the best option for a safe living environment that preserves their dignity. However, the transition into a memory care program can be tricky to manage well for various reasons. Fortunately, you can do things to simplify and smooth out this process. Senior living specialists recommend that you follow a few tips to better support your loved one.
For more information about the transition to memory care for a senior loved one, reach out to us at Parkway Place today at 281.305.1846. We can answer any questions and address any concerns you may have.
Tips for Starting the Transition to Memory Care
Effective planning is typically crucial when it comes to easing the move into a memory care program. Aspects of a solid plan include:
- Talking to your loved one about the move in clear, concise terms
- Helping your loved one select and pack their belongings
- Creating a homey environment in the new living space before they arrive
When talking about memory care, you may want to follow an agreed-upon script instead of speaking spontaneously. This step can help you comfort your loved one and avoid any misunderstandings. The same holds true when it comes to helping your loved one pack up their treasured belongings and creating a new environment that mirrors aspects of what they already know.
Tips for Moving Day
The things you do on moving day can pay big dividends for you and your loved one. There’s a good chance that the day will be stressful and highly emotional. It’s important that you acknowledge these feelings. Ask your loved one how they’re doing. However they respond, try your best to remain supportive and empathetic.
Experts also recommend that you do a few other things. First, you can help your loved one get familiar with the program’s staff members. In addition, you can help them start the process of socializing with their new neighbors. It’s also important for you to talk to the staff yourself. This will allow you to establish solid channels for ongoing communication in the future.
Making the Transition to Memory Care a Smooth One
The question of how to most comfortable transition an Alzheimer’s patient into memory care remains relevant after moving day. As a rule, it takes a considerable amount of time for new residents to fully adjust to their new homes. Awareness of this fact will help you temper your expectations.
Visits to your loved one can be vital for them, as well as for you. However, you need to exercise caution when making these visits. Why? Unless you’re careful, you may actually add to your loved one’s feelings of dislocation and distress. Specific steps you can take to limit this possibility include:
- Keeping a positive frame of mind
- Visiting in the morning, not the afternoon or evening
- Doing things with your loved one while you’re there
Why visit in the morning? Seniors with dementia are typically more alert at that time of day. By participating in an activity with your loved one, you help fit your visit into their daily routine. In turn, this step can help make the visit less disruptive or distressing.
Learn More About the Transition to Memory Care at Parkway Place
Want more information on smoothly transitioning to memory care? The senior living specialists at Parkway Place are standing by. We have extensive experience supporting seniors and their families at this crucial time. No matter the questions you have, we can answer them.
Buckner Parkway Place is a premier provider of memory care services. We’re committed to helping your loved one with dementia lead a fulfilling, dignified life. To learn more about our program, just call us today at 281.305.1846 or complete our online message form.