If you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may be taking the steps of transitioning them into a memory care community. This can feel like a challenging process since there are so many different steps you need to take and responsibilities you have to take care of. In this article, we will be going over some tips you can use when preparing your loved one for a transition into a memory care community in Mount Laurel, NJ.
Keep Communication Positive
Seniors who are experiencing memory-related diseases often struggle with feeling like they don’t have control over their lives. This can lead to feelings of negativity or anxiety regarding the transition into memory care in Mount Laurel, NJ.
To combat any concerns your loved one has about this move, try to keep the focus on positive things. Make sure your communication is always positive regarding the memory care community and that you focus on things that will make them happy. For instance, try to highlight the benefits of the community and how they will feel comfortable there.
Take Them For a Tour
If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, you have most likely handled the details regarding their transition into a memory care community. However, it is still important that you get them involved so that they feel like they have some measure of control over this transition.
A great way to get them involved in this process is to take them for a tour of the memory care community once you have an option picked out. Seeing the community for themselves can help alleviate any concerns they may have.
You can also take this time to highlight specific parts of the memory care community you think they will enjoy. For example, if your loved one enjoys spending time outdoors, you can take them for a tour of the outdoor spaces and activities available.
Create a Moving Checklist
Moving your loved one into a memory care community can feel overwhelming since there are so many things you have to take care of. The best way to give yourself some peace of mind and simplify the process is to create a moving checklist. Your checklist should include things like:
- Essentials to pack
- Addressing their current living arrangements
- Handling finances
- Storing or getting rid of items
These are just a few examples of the things you will need to handle throughout this process. Staying as stress-free as possible is crucial since you do not want to worry your loved one during this process.
Pack Items Together
When your loved one moves into a memory community, they will need to reduce their belongings. Depending on where your loved one has been living, this can be a big task if there are a lot of items that you have to sort through. The best way to tackle this task and make it enjoyable is to pack together.
Get your loved one involved so they have control over the items they want to bring. Make sure they understand what necessities they need so that they don’t overpack on non-necessities.
You can also use this time to see if they want to pass on any items to loved ones or store them for later. Keep in mind that it is always better to pack minimally during the move since you do not want to overcrowd their space. If there is room after the move-in, you could always bring them additional items.
Get Family Involved
One of the best ways to help your loved one throughout this moving process is to surround them with loved ones. It will be easier for them to stay positive if they feel like they aren’t going through this transition on their own.
Another thing you and your family can do is to make future plans with your loved one. One of the fears seniors may have when they are moving into a memory care community is that they are being abandoned. Making future plans with your loved one will assure them that they are still going to see you and be involved in family activities.
A great way to reassure your loved one before the move is to pick a day and time to visit them at the community each week. This gives them something to look forward to and maintains important relationships as they start this new journey.
Personalize Their New Space
When you have moved your loved one into their new living space, it is time to personalize it. A personalized living space will be easier for them to adjust to since it will be reminiscent of home.
To personalize their space, you will want to bring any items that have meaning and remind them of family. This could include photos, gifts, and other functional or decorative items they will enjoy.
Transitioning your loved one into a memory care community in Mount Laurel, NJ, involves many steps. To make sure this process is as easy and stress-free as possible, there are certain things you will want to do to improve the overall experience. If this is something you are preparing to do with your loved one, check out this guide on Talking to Your Parent About Senior Care and Living.
