Moving your loved one with dementia into an unfamiliar environment can cause stress on them and you as the caregiver. Whether you are moving your loved one to an assisted living, memory care or your own home, here are some tips to make the transition smooth for everyone involved.
Allow time to adjust.
It is best to move your loved one at a time when there is going to be little to no interruptions. Give yourself some time to help them adjust to this new environment and new faces.
Expect them to need support navigating this new environment.
Your loved one will need reminders where the bathroom is located. Patience is crucial when getting them adjusted. Walking them through the house or new facility may help them get used to their new home.
Bring in familiar objects.
Bringing in objects from their previous home like their favorite blanket or rocking chair may help bring a piece of familiarity to an unfamiliar situation.
Establish a schedule.
Making your loved one a routine can help in other areas of their daily life. When your loved one eats at a different time than normal or participates in an activity that they are not used to it can disturb their sleep patterns and may increase their memory challenges. If your loved one is getting moved into a facility, ensure that the staff is aware of their normal schedule and try to stick to that as much as possible.
Leave regular reminders to orient them to who they are and where they are.
Notecard reminders and pictures of the family may help your loved one feel like this new environment is their home. "Don't let perfection be the enemy of good." We want our loved ones to feel welcome and enjoy brand-new sheets, towels, and decorations. It may be best to stick to the things your loved one is most familiar with. Make them feel loved. Make them feel safe. They are going to be fine and you are going to be fine
This article is from the Brain & Life Magazine (June/July 2025) pg. 14
Comments