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The transition to memory care—and a “new normal” for your loved one—can cause emotions to run high as your family navigates the move. However, there are ways to help ease the process for your loved one and family members. Below are thoughtful and helpful tips for transitioning a loved one into a memory care community in Memphis, TN. Keep in mind that people handle change and transition differently. What works for one person and their family might not be best for you and yours. Use the advice that best fits your loved one’s personality and needs and your unique situation.
Expect the Unexpected
There is no right way to know what you are going to feel throughout this process and it is ok if your own emotions catch you off guard. You may want to recognize and accept that the entire process and transition will be challenging for your loved one, and for you and your family as well. Preparing everyone means that you understand there will be unexpected hurdles and emotions and this will likely not be as easy as you think. You can all face these challenges together and not be as surprised when difficulties or big emotions pop up along the way.
Know the Resources and Programs Available
Choosing a highly rated memory care community will be worth it because the benefits will begin before your loved one even moves in. These communities will offer all sorts of support to make the process and move as supported as possible. Talk to the staff about what options they offer to help you and your family support your loved one’s transition. There may be classes or events that you can attend or personal counselors to assist in the smaller details. Trust in their knowledge and experience to help you along the way.
Visit Often
Seniors with memory care needs can become disoriented quite easily. You will want to give your loved one a sense of comfort by being present and helping them become familiar with their new surroundings—one visit will probably not be enough. If you can, try to visit the spaces and community as frequently as possible, and stay for as long as necessary before moving day. Becoming familiar with the physical space and interacting with the staff ahead of time may foster a sense of comfort or familiarity when moving day finally arrives.
Pack for Your Loved One
Packing and downsizing is an incredibly stressful endeavor for most people. These tasks are especially overwhelming for anyone with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The process of moving furniture, packing familiar items or sorting old things can lead to disorientation and stress for your loved one. Consider packing when your loved one is out of the house to minimize this potential stress. It is also recommended not to over pack. Choosing key items that your loved one can recognize from home is a great place to start.
Include Familiar Items and Pictures
Packing only the most important familiar items may provide something to recognize when they arrive on moving day. Family photos that depict important people and events in your loved one’s life are great for them to have right away. Think about adding a label to the photos and writing mini descriptions of what event is happening in the photo. This simple addition to pictures can serve as a great way for the staff to initially interact, start conversion and get to know your loved one. A sense of home can be built when your loved one is able to talk about familiar people and events from their life.
Plan Around Your Loved One’s Schedule
Moving day should be centered completely around your loved one. Be considerate of meals, rest time, and what time of day your loved one is at their best. If mornings are already challenging, do not force them to move in the morning. The staff should assist you with making this day as comfortable as possible for your loved one and support your family’s wishes and needs. Everyone understands that emotions may come into play so pre-planning around your loved one and their schedule may help alleviate some tension.
Request Time Off in Advance
If you work, you will likely need to take some time off. At the very least, you will need to take off on moving day, but you may consider taking additional time before and after the move. Additional visits before the move, gathering supplies and packing may take longer than you think. Additionally, after moving day, you may want to have some mornings or afternoons free to visit and check in on your loved one’s progress. Seeing for yourself, in person, is the only way to ensure your loved one is safe and comfortable. Even if you decide that you do not need to use all the time off you have requested, knowing that you have that time available, should you need it, will be one less thing you need to worry about during this time.
It is understandable that the adjustment period will take some time for your loved one. However, you will want to be alert to potential issues and not just dismiss your loved one’s worries or concerns. Having an open dialogue with the staff is a great place to start if you suspect that your loved one is struggling more than you anticipated. The most important step you can take after moving day is to reassure your loved one by being supportive, calm and understanding by validating their feelings. Every day will not be easy, but in time things will get easier and your loved one will become accustomed to their new home and comfortable in their new routine.
Opus East Memphis is a senior living community in Memphis, TN offering exceptional care in assisted living and memory care. Please call 901-763-8485 to schedule a tour today!
