Is your loved one struggling with dementia? A memory care community may be the best place for them to get the help they need. Scroll down to explore some tips for moving someone with dementia.
Tips for Moving Someone with Dementia
One of the most challenging aspects of having a loved one with dementia is that, eventually, their condition may progress to a point where you can no longer provide all the care they need at home. For seniors struggling to live alongside a dementia diagnosis, moving into a memory care community that is prepared to support them can be life-changing. These tips for moving someone with dementia can help you make the transition as smooth as possible.
Talk to Their Doctor First
Before you move your loved one into a memory care community, you must talk with their doctor. A medical professional can help you understand how a senior’s dementia progresses and what therapies or interventions might be most helpful. They may even be able to offer advice on what kinds of communities can offer the best support.
Start the Conversation Now
Moving can be a challenging and emotional process no matter what else is happening in your life, and for seniors with dementia, the unknown can cause a lot of anxiety. Because of this, it’s essential to keep your loved one in the loop regarding your plans and accept their feedback whenever possible. Begin talking about the possibility now, and be sure to listen actively. Validate their concerns and take them seriously. The more consensus you can reach with your senior loved one throughout the moving process, the easier it will be.
Help Them Get Familiar with the Community
One way you can help your loved one deal with the unknowns of moving into a memory care community is by taking them to visit their new home a few times before the move. You can show them around the community, help them meet staff and other residents, and ensure their questions and concerns are answered. You can also introduce them to some perks that will make their new home a wonderful place to live!
Keep Things Simple, Comfortable, and Positive
Moving can be stressful, no matter what situation you’re in. You can make it easier for yourself and your senior loved one by keeping it as simple as possible:
- Familiar items can be a comfort in a new scenario, so help your senior loved one choose some familiar things to bring on move-in day. Consider a favorite blanket or warm sweater. Make sure that comfortable clothes and sentimental items like photo albums will be accessible to them on their first day in their new space.
- Do everything you can to ensure your senior loved one is not handling move logistics alone. Complicated processes like packing a truck can lead to overwhelming and upsetting feelings.
- Stay calm, positive, and patient. Your senior loved one may have some complicated feelings about their moving day, so be sure to hear them out while reinforcing the benefit of the move. Keep in mind that this transition will take time, and your senior loved one will eventually be glad to call their new community home.
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We hope these tips for moving someone with dementia will make your move easier. If you have more questions about how a memory care community can support seniors with dementia, give us a call.
Are you seeking an assisted living, memory support, or physician-directed nursing community in Kansas City? Check out The Piper. Our team of experienced and compassionate professionals ensures that “residents feel secure” and comfortable immediately. At our warm and welcoming community, which is truly a “home within a home,” we foster social interaction, engagement, and the right amount of care. Our residents always come first. To learn more about our services or schedule a tour, please give us a call at 913-361-5136 or contact us online.