If you or your loved one is moving into a new memory care community, it can be quite a significant transition for both the individual with the memory-related condition and their family. How should you prepare and what should you expect? While the transition may appear emotionally challenging, it is important to remember that this is a positive step towards improving the quality of life and ensuring our safety and well-being as we age. Next, we will discuss some valuable best practices to help ease the process of selecting and moving into a Naperville, IL memory care community.
Plan Ahead
The key facet of a smooth transition is planning. Start the process early, so you have ample time to research different memory care communities in Naperville, IL and compare your needs to the care they have available. Visit them, take a tour, ask questions and gather all necessary information to make an informed decision.
Establish Open Communication
Open and honest communication is vital. Talk to your loved ones about the move to memory care well in advance. While it may be a difficult conversation, understanding the reasons for the transition and involving them in the decision-making process can greatly help alleviate anxiety.
Select the Right Community
No two memory care communities are the same and many of them offer different variations of care. Choose one that aligns with your or your loved one’s specific needs and preferences. Additionally, look for a community with staff that is well trained in dementia care, providing ample activities and a safe, comfortable environment.
Personalize Your New Space
To create a sense of comfort and familiarity, try to personalize your new living space with cherished belongings like family photos, favorite artwork and familiar furniture. This can help those with a memory related condition feel more at home right away and also help ease the stress of being in a new location, especially if the resident had previously lived in the same home for a long period of time.
Establish a Reliable Routine
Consistency is key for individuals with memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Work with the care team at your chosen community to establish a daily routine that includes set meal times, activities and rest. This routine can provide comfort and structure during this unfamiliar period.
Participate in Community Activities
Most memory care communities offer a variety of engaging activities and programs to help residents feel welcome and break the ice with their new neighbors. Plan to pencil some of these activities into your schedule early on, as they can be an excellent way to socialize and stimulate cognitive abilities.
Enjoy Regular Family Visits
Frequent visits from family and friends always help residents feel connected and supported. Spend quality time with your loved ones whenever you can, participate in activities together, go on day-trips and show that you are still a significant part of their life regardless of where you may be.
Provide and Receive Emotional Support
For both the one receiving the memory care and family members, it’s important to realize that moving into a memory care community can be an emotional roller coaster. In this stage of life, it’s crucial to lead each conversation with empathy and patience as well as offer any additional emotional support during this period of adjustment. Memory care communities such as Arbor Terrace Naperville make it their top priority to prepare families for a big moving transition with specialized guides, designated support staff and anything else that may be needed. When residents come first, peace of mind is always present.
Stay Informed
Keep in close contact with staff and caregivers within your chosen Naperville, IL memory care community. If you are the family member of the one receiving care, plan to stay informed about their well-being and health status with regular check-ins on any care changes as well as behavioral and physical changes. Open lines of communication, as mentioned previously, are key to a happy and healthy transition into memory care.
Self Care
Last but certainly not least, be gentle and caring with yourself during this transitional period. Moving into a Naperville, IL memory care community may be a new and daunting experience, but with dedicated time allotted to caring and being graceful with yourself, you can ensure your well-being while also getting maximum fulfillment out of this positive new experience.
Wondering about some other ways to prepare for the big transition into a Naperville, IL memory care community? Our team at Arbor Terrace Naperville has carefully curated a checklist for exactly that purpose. The Complete Checklist for Moving to a Senior Community is packed full of important things to consider, tips for creating a homey environment in your new room and a comprehensive list of what to (and not to) pack, so you can be fully ready for this next life adventure.
For more information, we are always ready to assist! Call us or book your tour of Arbor Terrace Naperville today.
