How to Transition a Loved One into Memory Care: A Family’s Guide

Putting a family member in a nursing home is a very emotional and challenging experience for a family. But sometimes this transition becomes unavoidable when an aged person is suffering from a chronic ailment and can’t take good care of themselves. For instance, 6 million American adults have dementia, and 1 in 2 85-year-olds will develop this condition.

A specialized “memory care” facility takes care of your loved ones living with chronic conditions & cognitive impairments like dementia or Alzheimer’s. But the decision to move them out of the house and into these facilities comes with feelings of guilt, anxiety, and uncertainty.

But you should ensure that this move is smooth and comforting for the whole family. You should provide them with love & support throughout this transition for everyone’s well-being.

This comprehensive guide explores tips to manage this transition to memory care confidently.

Learn When It’s Time for Memory Care

When is it time to consider moving to memory care? It’s a very difficult step for families. Looking for the signs might help, signs indicating that your loved one’s care needs have escalated.

Warning Signs That Care Needs Have Escalated

Did you know that 85% of folks ignore telltale signs of dementia as normal aging? Don’t repeat this mistake. As your aged family member’s dementia progresses, the level of care they require increases as well. Some common signs suggesting that it’s time to explore memory care are:

• Your loved one gets lost in familiar places or forgets important details.
• They are struggling with medicine management, cooking, eating, or basic hygiene.
• Leaving the house unsupervised or engaging in unsafe behaviors has become common.
• They demonstrate signs of increased anxiety, agitation, aggression, or withdrawal from social activities.
• They fall down quite often and are losing weight; they may develop other health issues as well, indicating that they need professional care.

If you see these signs, you must consider specialized dementia patient care for your loved one. It’s better for their safety and well-being.

Talk to a Doctor or Geriatric Specialist

You should consult with healthcare professionals who specialize in dementia and geriatric care, too. They will conduct a thorough assessment of your loved one’s mental health, suggesting the appropriate level of care they need. Also, they will help you understand what to expect as they transition. You may even get some amazing memory care transition tips from a doctor.

A doctor will manage medications on your loved one’s behalf as well.

Recognizing Caregiver Burnout

Too much exposure to pain and trauma can end up giving you “compassion fatigue.”

In this mental condition, caregivers exhaust their compassion for a dementia patient, no longer being sensitive to their suffering. It happens because caring for someone with dementia can be demanding and exhausting. Both mentally and physically… It takes guts to be a caregiver!

If you or your loved one’s caregiver is exhausted or feeling frustrated, it may be a sign that extra support is needed. Once you recognize the signs of caregiver burnout, you should consider the possibility of admitting your loved one to a memory care facility posthaste.

Preparing Emotionally for the Move (and Logistically…)

Once you’ve decided that a move to memory care is the best option, preparation is the key to easing the stress and making the transition as smooth as possible. So, here’s how to prepare:

1.   Start the Conversation (Get the Ball Rolling)

We get it. Introducing the very idea of memory care is met with resistance by some people. But starting the conversation early lets your loved one process the changes gradually. You need to approach this discussion with empathy.

You should use simple, reassuring language when discussing this topic. Listen to what they say, and respond to their concerns regarding nursing home abuse.

2.   Tour Facilities Together (If Feasible)

Visiting potential memory care facilities together helps your loved one feel more comfortable and involved. It also gives you a chance to assess the environment, meet staff, and ask questions.

You should also read about senior care regulations in Florida when choosing a facility.

3.   Downsize and Pack Comfort Items

Packing your loved one’s familiar belongings is a great way to help this transition. You should let your family member choose which personal items they want to take with them to the care facility. For instance, they may choose photographs, trinkets, blankets, books, or other keepsakes. It’ll give them a sense of familiarity in the nursing home.

Work with staff to help decorate your loved one’s new space in a way that feels like home. This personalization helps ease the emotional impact of the move. That’s how your loved one won’t feel disoriented in their new home after relocating.

4.   Plan the Move for a Calm Part of the Day

Schedule the relocation during times when your loved one is calm and alert, avoiding periods when they may be more confused or agitated.

How to Help Your Loved One Adjust After the Move?

Adjustment to memory care is a process that requires patience and understanding. You should:

Set Up a Routine Quickly

People with dementia benefit a lot from routinization. Consistent daily routines provide structure in their lives. It gives them a sense of security. That’s why you should work with the care team to set up:

• Regular mealtimes
• Daily activities
• Rest periods
• Social interactions
• Family visitations

Familiar routines can help reduce their anxiety and keep them comfortable at their memory care facility.

Visit Consistently and Gradually Space Out

You should visit your loved one frequently in the early days. It will reassure them they have not been simply cast aside. They will also acclimate to their new environment. Over time, spacing your visits will encourage them to live independently.

Communicate with Staff to Personalize Care

You should keep the channel of communication open with the care team.

Share your loved one’s habits and likes/dislikes with them. That’s how they will tailor care plans to your family member’s taste, offering personalized support.

Be Patient through the Adjustment Period

Is your family member experiencing mood swings? Are they resisting the transition? Don’t fret; it is a perfectly natural response to sudden lifestyle changes. You shouldn’t lose your temper; try to respond with empathy. Reassure them that you’ll still come visit them. Set their mind at ease with consistent support.

Tips for Family Caregivers During this Transition

• Acknowledge Feelings like Guilt/Grief: It’s natural to feel guilt and sadness when you move a loved one to memory care. You need to recognize these emotions and then work through them. Seek professional help & support to keep your emotions in check.
• Look for Counseling or Support Groups: We recommend professional counseling and caregiver support groups. These options will provide safe spaces where you can share your experiences and learn from other people’s stories.
• Stay Involved but Avoid Micromanagement: Please stay actively involved in the care of your loved one. You should attend care meetings and communicate with the staff. It’s also advised to advocate for their needs openly. But avoid micromanaging. This way, you will prevent burnout and compassion fatigue when taking care of your loved one.

How Hampton Manor Supports Families and Residents?

When it comes to helping a loved one adjust to memory care, you can trust Hampton Manor. We understand the complexities of transition to memory care. So, our goal is to make it as smooth & compassionate as possible. We offer specialized transition programs that focus on personalized care plans tailored to each resident’s unique needs & preferences.

Your loved one will find a secure, homely environment here. We offer many amazing activities & therapies, too. That’s how we stimulate the cognitive function of our residents and enhance their quality of life. That’s why we have many positive reviews on our website, such as this one:

“The staff at Hampton Manor treated our mother like family. Their patience, kindness, and personalized care made the transition easier than we ever imagined.”

We realize that the transition to memory care is a major step for your family. With Hampton Manor, you don’t have to face it alone; we’ll help and guide your family through every phase.

Feel free to book a tour today to learn more about our memory care services in Ocala, Florida.

FAQs: Dementia Patient Care

What’s the best way to talk to a loved one about moving to memory care?

You should approach this sensitive topic with empathy and honesty. Always focus on the pros of memory care facilities, e.g., safety, social opportunities, and specialized care. Keep that family member involved in the decision-making process to maintain their dignity.

How long does it take for someone to adjust to memory care?

It may take your love a few weeks to several months to adjust. If you are keeping a consistent routine with constant visits and personalized care, they may adjust to memory care quite soon.

What should we bring to our loved one on their first day in memory care?

You can bring personal items like their photos, favorite garments, toiletries, comfort objects, and other objects. Don’t forget about medical documents and medicines.

Can we stay with our loved one on the first night of transition?

Policies vary by facility. Hampton Manor encourages family involvement and will discuss options during your tour.