Tips for Moving to a Dementia Community

When a loved one needs professional nursing care, it can impact the whole family. What makes the situation even more stressful is when the senior suffers from dementia. Whether for safety or financial reasons, mom or dad needs round-the-clock attention at a specialized dementia care facility.

Thankfully, a skilled nursing facility like West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation Center has the knowledge and experience to provide the excellent care you seek for a loved one with dementia. What can you do to help your loved one adjust?

How Do You Tell Your Loved One?

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends waiting to tell your loved one about the move until close to the date. The anticipation may cause negative feelings and affect mood for the weeks or months leading up to the move. They also suggest telling your loved one the move is short-term, until he or she becomes familiar and more comfortable with the surroundings.

Transitioning to a Skilled Nursing Facility

Once you have told your loved one about the transition and it’s time to move in, follow these tips to help the process run smoothly:

• Be patient and understanding throughout the day. If you become frustrated or negative, your loved one may associate those feelings with the new environment.
• Prepare a list of medications and daily medical procedures to share with the staff. We’ll appreciate the information and you’ll feel more comfortable with your loved one in our care!
• Make sure there are familiar faces present on move-in day. Gather your family members to help with the move, so your loved one feels at ease.
• Simplify tasks that may cause frustration. To avoid irritability, assign the senior small tasks while you and the family take care of the heavy lifting.
• Make the room feel like home. Bring pictures and other special items that will provide your loved one comfort while you’re away.
• Be encouraging. Remind your loved one of favorite activities and suggest getting to know other residents who share similar interests.

 
At West Hartford Health & Rehabilitation Center, we provide specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Your loved one will be comfortable and safe in our care. To learn more about our admissions process, contact us today!