Finding support for a loved one with Memory Loss can be an overwhelming process. From finding the right care environment to easing the transition, it often feels like there are more questions than answers. But don’t feel discouraged—navigating Memory Care doesn’t need to be difficult! With proper forethought and planning, you will have peace of mind in knowing that your loved one is receiving the best possible support.

Preparing for the Transition

To assist you in your journey, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to ease the transition into Memory Care in order to provide your loved one with genuine comfort and a sense of security.

Research Memory Care Environments

Not all Memory Care environments are the same. Some offer limited supervision and physical support while others are completely focused on the daily care for people living with Memory Loss. Ask about the levels of care offered, as some residences have care limitations. Various recreation and social programs should be provided daily with activities tailored to the needs and abilities of Members. Look for locations that offer the majority of Memory Care programs in the Memory Care environment, because often larger homes that have Memory Care floors or neighbourhood rarely take their Memory Care residents to other areas of the residence that aren’t secured.

Tour Potential Facilities

While pictures and videos online can give you an idea of the specific amenities and nursing support available at a Memory Loss environment, only a first-hand look will give you the best picture. Arrange for a guided and personal tour of each of the places you are considering. Look for red flags like bored people, everyone is in their rooms isolated or sat around a nursing stations.  Use your senses; are their offensive smells, people that appear uncared for based on appearance, are there employees engaged with the people.

Make a Plan for the Transition

Once a Memory Care environment has been chosen, make arrangements for the person living with Memory Loss to participate in social activities at the place, see the living quarters, and perhaps even enjoy a meal. Make sure you set as much of the room up as possible with familiar and comfortable items such as a favourite blanket, pillow, pictures, favourtie scents. Anything that will make their new accommodations more relaxing. It is often best to NOT discuss the transition too far in advance due to their Memory Loss. This often causes undue stress and anxiety of a situation they often have little control or understanding over.

Pick a Time of Day That Is Best Suited for Moving

For a person living with Memory Loss, it may be impossible to pinpoint the right time for the physical move to a new environment. Some people are more alert and oriented first thing in the morning while others may be at their best in the early afternoon, though it is best to be as early in the day a possible so they can settle into the space before any afternoon sundowning occurs.

Tips for Making the Transition Easier

Before planning a move to a Memory Care environment, there are several steps you and your loved ones should follow to help everyone involved in the transition.

Acknowledge Their Questions and Concerns

Change can be difficult for any person moving to a new place. For a person with Memory Loss this can cause extreme stress and anxiety. Be sure to answer all questions with empathy, compassion, and reassurance. There may be some anger and confusion at first as they become acquainted in their new environment.

Personalize the New Living Space

Those living with Memory Loss enjoy, and need, to have familiarity on both good days and bad days. Whether it is a favourite chair, pictures, books, or knick-knacks, the new space should be filled with a few items that bring happiness to your loved one living with Memory Loss.

Notify Team Members about Your Loved One’s Needs

The Team Members at Memory Care environments are dedicated to the support and care of people living with Memory Loss. They understand the complexity of the condition and how each individual may require specific care and attention. Provide the necessary information to the Team Members to enhance the overall care of your loved one. Ensure their Care Plan is completed to the best of your abilities to ensure that personalized care and accurate support is provided.

Attend Transition Programs

Reputable Memory Care environments will provide transition programs to support the person living with Memory Loss and their care partner(s). There may be programs designed just for the person moving and programs focused on helping the care partner(s) mentally and emotionally accept the transition.

Visits

The transition to a Memory Care environment can take time and everyone adjusts differently. For some families, the adjustment period can be weeks, months, or even years. It is best to work with your Memory Care professionals to determine the visit schedule. Often when a person first transitions visitors can be overwhelming and upsetting, while others readily accept visitors and the transition is smooth. With Memory Loss everyone goes through transition differently and we take each visit as a learned experience. The Memory Care environments leadership team can guide, based on their knowledge and experience on a case-by-case basis.

Stay Connected

It is important to stay connected with the person living with Memory Loss once the transition is complete. Regular communication is vital to ensure your loved one doesn’t feel neglected or deserted. Staying connected with the Team Members at the Memory Care environment can also help improve communication and reduce stress for the care partner(s).

Encourage Them to Engage with People

A new community means new friends and new fun opportunities. Encourage the person living with Memory Loss to engage in social activities at their new place. The Team Members will offer conversation-stimulating games and activities to help the transition.

Memory & Company Respite Hotel Service

The transition to Memory Care can be an overwhelming and daunting time for both the person living with Memory Loss and their care partner(s). With locations in Oakville and Markham, Memory & Company is able to provide supportive care for those living with Memory Loss and respite for their care partners.

Our short-term and long-term open-ended care offers the VIP treatment. We provide customized physical and social programs with 24/7 nursing support as needed. Call us today at (905) 888-8808, email us at info@memoryandcompany.com, or fill out this form for more information.