Moving someone to memory care in Gilberton, PA, can be very difficult, especially if your loved one is resistant to the idea. However, approaching the process honestly could make the transition easier for everyone involved. Here are five tips to help your loved one move successfully:
- Try to Maintain a Positive Attitude
The first thing to do is try to maintain a positive attitude. It won’t be easy at first, but remember that this move is for the best. You want to be supportive of your loved one.
Try not to comment negatively about senior-friendly communities, even if you’re having a bad day. You can always approach someone on staff if something isn’t going well or ask them for recommendations of things you can do with your loved one once they’ve settled in. But don’t let anyone else see how upset you are, and don’t let yourself get too worked up over anything.
- Don’t Downplay Their Concerns
When your loved one expresses a concern, be sure to listen and take it seriously. Don’t minimize their concerns by saying they’re being silly or worrying too much. Some people with dementia may not understand that they have dementia, but that doesn’t mean their feelings aren’t valid.
It’s also important not to dismiss your loved one’s concerns as nothing. You don’t want them to feel like they are being dismissed or ignored. So instead of saying things like “Don’t worry about it” or “That’s no big deal,” try something more neutral such as “Thank you for telling me.”
- Get Their Input on Their New Home
Asking your loved one what they like and don’t like about their current home is an excellent way to get them excited about the move. They may have concerns you never thought of, so knowing them before you take them on tour is crucial.
Ask your loved one if there are any specific aspects of their current home they would like replicated at their new senior retirement apartment. For example, they may love spending time in the garden or going for walks around the neighborhood with friends. They would like similar options available in this new community.
- Be Honest with Them
Moving into a Memory Care community is a big change for your loved one. They will leave behind the familiar home where they’ve lived their entire lives. The community team can help you with this transition. Still, ultimately it’s up to you to ensure your loved one feels comfortable in their new environment.
To ease the process, try being honest about what awaits them at the Memory Care community. They might need additional assistance while living there, and someone will be available 24/7 if they need anything.
Inform them other residents have dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in addition to them. Ensure they understand that every resident has an individualized care plan so each resident gets exactly what they need. And if necessary, family members are welcome on weekends and holidays (and if possible).
- Visit Often, but Don’t Overstay Your Welcome
Visiting your loved one often is crucial, but make sure you stay within your welcome. While it’s a good idea to visit regularly, especially if the person is new to the community and may feel lonely, you should ensure they feel safe. Remember that each resident has a routine and schedule within the Memory Care community.
Key Takeaway
Moving someone to a memory care community can be stressful for both parties. Still, it can be easier for all involved with the right approach. By starting with positive feelings and open communication, you’ll have a better chance of creating a happy environment for everyone.
