As a caregiver, you may find yourself in need of help for your loved one. This can be because of a change in their condition or because they are ready to move from assisted living into a memory care community. It is important that you know what to look for when choosing a place for them so that they can have an enjoyable experience while still receiving the care they need.
In this guide, we’ll help you make sure that you’re doing everything possible to help your loved one transition to memory care in Apex, NC, and stay comfortable there long-term—all while making it easier on yourself!
Talk to Your Loved Ones about Their Wishes
The first step to helping your loved one transition is to talk to them about their wishes. Talk with them about what they would like to do, what they would like to have, who they would like to be around, and what they would like to eat.
Make sure you are honest with yourself and your loved ones regarding their move. Do not be afraid of asking questions or letting the person know that this may sometimes be difficult for you. The best way for your loved one’s transition into memory care can go smoothly is by being honest with them as well as yourself.
Make a List of the Things They Need to Do
It’s okay to ask them. You can start by listing the things they need help with and then add them to your calendar as tasks that you’ll work through each day. This way, you’re not overwhelming yourself or trying to do everything at once as you have a plan. Once you have this list and know what needs to be done daily, ask them for help with something related (or unrelated) to their health or well-being. Then have them check off the box when it’s completed!
If some things aren’t possible for you or others in the family (like cooking), try asking if anyone else could help out instead of doing it yourself. Even though it might feel like more effort on your part initially, it will pay off in the end when they get used to having someone else doing those tasks for them while still feeling like they’ve accomplished something themselves!
Go on a House Tour
Before you commit to memory care, take a tour of the community. If they don’t already offer this service, ask if they can set up a tour for you and your loved one. You should be able to see all of their living spaces and get a feel for what it’s like inside. Ask questions about what their policies are in terms of medication, meals, and activities. Find out how the team communicates with each other (and residents).
If your loved one has any particular needs or routines that would need to be accommodated at the senior-friendly independent living community, make sure they’ll have enough help from both team members and other residents, so everyone feels comfortable following along with them.
Conclusion
Moving into memory care is a big decision for anyone, but it can be especially challenging if you have dementia. It is important to make sure that the transition is smooth for your loved one and that they have all the support they need when moving into memory care.
