Where to Begin? Transitioning a Parent into a Memory Care Community

Moving is a big change in life, and one that usually comes with a mix of emotions. As a family member of someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, you want to make sure they have the support they need to live as fully as possible. When it’s time for your parent to move into a Memory Care community, you can help make the transition as smooth as possible. 

Moving to a new place can be confusing for someone with dementia, and they may feel sad, upset or anxious about the changes. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings, offer encouragement and let them know you’re there to help. Staying calm throughout the moving process can help everyone move forward with greater confidence.

Knowing what to expect can be helpful as your loved one adjusts to life in Memory Care. We put together a list of tips to help them make a smooth transition.

Preparing for the Move to Memory Care

Here are some ways to prepare your loved one for the transition to Memory Care:

• Provide consistent communication. If your loved one doesn’t fully understand what’s happening, they may forget the details of where they’re moving and why. It’s important to communicate a simple, comforting message, such as “you’re moving to a new home where you’ll be safe.” Ask all family members to convey the same or similar message when talking about the move with your loved one.

• Pack for your loved one. The concept of packing up their belongings can be confusing and disorienting for someone with dementia. You can relieve some of the stress of moving by packing the things they’ll need in Memory Care for them. If your loved one wants to be involved in the process, it helps if you can give them simple tasks or decisions they can make easily.

• Don’t rush. Allow plenty of time for the steps involved in downsizing, packing and moving. Instead of rushing through the process, take a few moments to slow down and look through old photos or memorabilia together. 

Moving Day Tips

Moving day can be a whirlwind! Here are some tips for a low-stress moving day:

• Make a plan for moving. Even if you don’t have a lot of furniture and boxes to move, hiring a moving company or bringing a few friends to help with moving can help. That way, you can focus on navigating the new space and helping your mom or dad get settled in.

• Meet caregivers and staff. As you get to know the community, you and your family members will meet nurses, dining staff, activities coordinators and other team members. Your parent will meet with caregivers to evaluate their needs and develop an individualized care plan.

• Create a comfortable, homelike environment. Adding personal touches to the new space is a great way to help your parent feel more comfortable. Surround them with familiar and favorite items from home, such as family photos, favorite artwork and treasured knickknacks.

Supporting Them After the Move

Here are some ways to help your loved one adjust to their new surroundings after the move:

• Visit often. Seeing loved ones regularly can help them feel comfortable at home in their new residence, especially in the first few weeks and months after moving.

• Interact with the neighbors. Encourage your loved one to get to know other residents and embrace the positive aspects of living in a community. 

• Explore engagement activities. Participating in enrichment activities can help create a sense of belonging. Music, art and pet therapy programs provide fun and fulfilling ways for residents to connect their interests and to each other. Ask for the Memory Care activities calendar so you can stop by and join in the fun with your loved one!

We Can Help Ease the Transition to Memory Care

At Riverside Senior Life, we’re here to help you navigate the challenges of moving a loved one into Memory Care. You can rest assured knowing that your loved one will be in a caring and supportive environment in our Memory Care communities located in Kankakee and Bourbonnais, IL. We’re transforming dementia care with an unparalleled level of individualized care, personalized programs and round-the-clock security.

Learn more about Riverside’s Memory Care communities at Bourbonnais Grove in Bourbonnais and Westwood in Kankakee.