As a loved one’s memory declines, one of the hardest decisions that needs to be made is when and how to relocate your loved one into a memory care facility. It can be challenging to find the right facility, and even more so to prepare your loved one for the changes a big move like this entails. We’ve compiled some of our best tips on how to make this transition easier for you and your loved one.
Is it time to Move?
Before a move, you need to do your research to find the best facility to meet your loved one’s needs. Depending on what stage of memory impairment they are in, you can start by talking to them. Before choosing a memory care facility, research Tampa area senior facilities and their amenities. If possible, take a tour.
Related > Is it time to move into a Senior Living Community?
Transitioning to a Senior Care Community
Transitioning a loved one to a senior facility can feel daunting. Our top tip for move-in day is to schedule move-in mid-morning or mid-afternoon. This timing avoids busier mornings and breakfast and can help with a calm move that is less alarming to your loved one.
Other things to keep in mind before the move:
- Recognize that the transition will be challenging for you, and your loved one.
- It’s easier to spend time observing what things around their home they like and enjoy regularly, and pack those. Asking them what they want to bring or leave behind may cause an episode.
- Not all assisted living facilities are equal. Choose a facility that specializes in memory care.
- Don’t take too many items it can confuse someone who is suffering from memory loss.
- Work with counselors to ease the transition. Some communities offer transition programs.
- Attend events at the care facility before move-in day, this can help increase your loved one’s familiarity with their new surroundings.
Top Tips for Moving Memory Impaired Seniors
Stay Positive
Moving a parent or loved one to assisted living can be an emotional rollercoaster, especially if you are moving a parent from your childhood home. Try your best not to allow these emotions to show. They need your support and your positivity.
Get the Bed Ready
Make the bed first if possible. Put linens on and set up any bedside items that they are used to at their home. This will ensure that they feel more at home and can lie down throughout the move if needed.
Plan for Moving Day
Plan carefully; you might need to ask a friend or other family member to care for your loved one on moving day while the movers are packing. You might even be able to have them go to the memory care community ahead of time and attend an activity instead of being home during the move.
Use A Trusted Moving Company
Florida’s Best Moving can make the transition to an assisted care facility easier and less stressful. Our attention to detail is unmatched, and we insure all of your prized possessions. We can even help pack and unpack!
Contact Florida’s Best Moving and Storage Tampa Bay or call 1-813-485-6580 to get a FREE quote!
What to do After the Move
You might feel like you need to check in on your loved one the day after the move. It’s actually best to allow them to acclimate to their new home and then visit. This can be challenging, especially if you are used to seeing them every day. Schedule a family member or friend to visit them every couple of days.
As difficult as the transition might be for your loved one with memory loss, you can rest assured that they will make new friends, bond with the staff, and have a safe secure place to sleep at night. They will adjust, and they will have a better quality of life from your decision to make the move.
Choose our Senior Moving Specialists
Our Senior population is very important to us, and we are here to help you with the task of moving a memory-impaired senior to their new home. You can breathe a sigh of relief that your loved one will have the care and attention that they need in their new home.
We can help make the move easy, and can even help you pack and unpack! For more information on our top-rated moving company, local storage services, or would like a FREE in-home estimate, please call us today at 813-485-6570!