Currently up to 5.7 million residents of the United States have Alzheimer’s Disease. By 2050, that number is expected to grow to 14 million. Do you have a parent with Alzheimer’s that needs help a memory care facility can provide?
Follow Key Steps Before the Move to a Memory Care Facility
There are important key steps to follow before moving a parent from their home. You need to be able to manage emotions, maintain effective communication, and find ways to make a memory care facility feel more like home. Follow the steps below to ease the transition.
Pack at the Right Time
Moving is especially overwhelming for a parent with Alzheimer’s. Pack when they aren’t home, are spending time with friends, or when they’re asleep to lessen panic. Not being able to see you pack beloved items can eliminate disorientation and stress.
Acknowledge Their Concerns
On the day you are moving, expect your parent to wonder why they need memory care. They may ask you to take them back home. Distress is common for this type of transition. Lean more toward being empathetic in this situation. Tell them you hear them and understand this move is difficult.
Personalize Their New Living Space
Create a homey feel for your parent’s new living space by personalizing their room. Decorate the space with familiar items before they move into their new home. When they see their belongings there already, it can ease the anxiety of the move.
Encourage Participation and Socializing
Encourage your loved one to explore the memory care community. This will help them acclimate to their new surroundings. Try to move them into the facility where a memory care activity is underway. Joining memory care activities right away decreases the stress of moving. They also get the chance to meet new friends and get a feel for a new routine.
Take Time to Listen
An emotional situation like moving to memory care is a listening opportunity. Take the time to listen to your family member to learn their mindset. This gives you the chance to deepen your bond and understanding.
It may take several weeks for your parent to transition to memory care. Hundreds of families already enjoy help from memory care facilities. Contact them to learn more about their memory care and schedule a tour.
