Most elders with Alzheimer’s disease or other kinds of dementia will reach a point when they can no longer live safely on their own. This forces families to weigh the pros and cons of either providing in-home care or moving the loved one to an assisted living community with memory care near Lake Worth, TX.
You may be concerned about how to best manage the move to a memory care community if your family has decided that this is the best option for your loved one. Keep in mind that the most important thing you can do is make your loved one feel at ease in their new surroundings.
Following these tips will help your loved one adjust more quickly and make moving day less stressful overall.
Understanding the Emotions
There may be feelings of remorse and apprehension when making the decision to relocate a loved one. Remember that the most significant aspect of “home” for a person with dementia is not the four walls or the address, but rather the feeling of having support right next to them.
Your dementia-stricken family member will feel most at ease when surrounded by familiar faces. If you do not feel good about the choice, they will not either.
Focus on the following needs to improve communication with your loved one on moving day:
- Community
- Sense of belonging
- Need to feel safe
Staying Away from Overwhelming Statements
When planning a major relocation, it can be tempting to try to reason with a loved one or express how you feel about the decision. Dementia can impair a person’s ability to think and comprehend information, so it is vital to keep that in mind when trying to persuade a loved one to relocate because they are no longer able to take care of themselves.
If you want to prevent causing your loved one any confusion or irritation, try to avoid saying the following:
- We have decided that it is no longer safe for you to live alone, so we are assisting in your transition to an assisted living community.
- Remind them that you made this choice because you think it is best for your loved one. If you let your loved one in on your sadness or uncertainty, they will feel vulnerable.
- Telling a loved one, “This is your new home,” can be a dangerous mistake that leaves them feeling anxious, confused, and insecure.
Describing the Situation
So, what can you tell your loved one to make them feel at ease in their new home? Describe the current situation and the intended future course using upbeat, detailed language. Keep a positive attitude and stress the need of ensuring them that they will be welcomed and cared for in their new home.
Here are a few phrases that may be of use:
- We are excited to share with you that we will soon be moving to a breathtaking location.
- The residents are really friendly and helpful.
- We are positive you will have a pleasant and secure experience there. Nevertheless, if something is off, please let me know.
- Instead of stating, “This is your new home,” add, “You have your own place where you belong.”
- This community is brimming with kind souls who want to help you. The food here is excellent.
