Dementia is a progressive, debilitating condition, and the symptoms can make it impossible for your senior loved one to live alone. Though assisted living will improve their quality of life and keep them safe, the process of relocation can be confusing and emotional. Properly preparing can ease the transition, and there are several steps to take. Here's how you can help.

How to Move Your Loved One to a Memory Care Community

1. Carefully Explain the Reasoning

Your loved one may be apprehensive about moving to assisted living. It’s a big change, and they may not feel safe outside their home. This is understandable, so start the conversation by going through the reasoning. 

If they’ve complained about cooking, cleaning, or forgetting their medication, explain that memory care professionals handle these daily needs. If they’re lonely or feel unsafe when alone, describe how they’ll meet friends and have 24/7 staff to help in the community. If you take the time to engage in compassionate conversation, they’ll start to see the many benefits of moving.

2. Schedule a Morning Move-In

Many seniors with dementia experience a symptom called sundowning. Changes in light and disruptions with their internal clock often lead to confusion in the afternoon. In the most severe cases, patients may hallucinate or feel separated from reality.

With this in mind, schedule their move-in for the morning. Wake them up at the same time as usual and follow their bathing, grooming, and breakfast routine. Schedules often help seniors with dementia feel safer because they know what to expect from their day and surroundings. The result will be a less stressful move.

3. Make Their Room Familiar

Memory loss is a leading dementia symptom. Seniors become easily confused, especially in new environments. For this reason, personalize their room so that it looks familiar and provides a sense of home. 

Place their favorite chair in front of the television and drape a comfort blanket over the back. Bring some of their kitchenware, paintings, family photographs, and a way to play their favorite songs. These details will ground your loved one, making them feel safe as soon as possible in the assisted living community.

If you’re searching for an assisted living community in Demorest, GA, schedule a tour of Magnolia Hills. This family-owned and -operated senior living center provides comprehensive memory care services to residents. Their retirement care specialists are available 24/7 to ensure residents’ every need is met. Call (706) 839-7016 or visit them online to learn more about the community.