At The Creeks, we know just how nervous and unsettled you may feel at this moment. That's why we developed this simple guide to help coordinate your loved one's move and ease them into their transition.

How To Move A Loved One Into The Best Memory Care Facility In Troy

If you've taken the time to research care homes for dementia, then you already know what kind of care to expect once your loved one is settled in. The challenge now is just making sure their transition is smooth and straightforward.

Just stick with our handy steps and your loved one will be in their new home in no time.

1. Discuss The Move With Your Loved One

We know you may be dreading this conversation with your loved one, but you can't avoid it. They need to be informed of the move regardless of their current memory difficulties.

However, you can't just blurt it out! You need to be careful how you frame the move and how much information you give them. For instance, you shouldn't tell your loved one they're moving because they need more help. Many individuals with dementia are often unaware of their symptoms, and thus may become more suspicious or confused due to your reasoning. Instead, try to frame the move in a more positive light.

To prepare for this conversation, you should read up on some communication strategies so you can better discuss the move to your loved one with dementia. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Limit potential distractions during your conversation - Find a quiet and comfortable place to talk away from the TV or any other noises.
• Avoid overwhelming questions - Make sure the questions you ask don't present too many options. Keep their choices nice and simple.
• Focus on one topic at a time - Those with dementia can have a hard time maintaining a conversation with multiple threads.
• Be patient - Give your loved one extra time to process what you're saying and respond.

It's also important to keep in mind the moving timeline. You shouldn't tell your loved one about the move too far in advance, as it can increase their anxiety and make them more agitated.

2. Downsize Before The Move

Moving is rarely ever easy. Your loved one likely has tons of belongings, many of which are associated with fond memories. Unfortunately, they can't bring everything with them to the memory care community.

Figure out what things can come with them and what needs to go. Some things can be put into storage, some things you can sell or donate, and other things can be dealt with later.

To help minimize your moving inventory, remember to consider:

• Which possessions are most important to your loved one?
• Which items do they use every day?
• What things will help make their new space feel like home to them?
• And which possessions do they associate with fond memories?

3. Get Professional Moving Help

While you can move your loved one into their new community all by yourself, it is not recommended! Moving is already stressful as it is, and the emotional weight of this move could be too much for you to bear. It's a big transition for everyone, so we recommend using all the help you can get.

You may want to consider hiring a senior move manager for the transition! They specialize in helping seniors downsize, relocate, and move.

By delegating the coordination to a senior move manager, you'll ease the burden on your family and minimize the stress of moving day. You can use the National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers to find a manager for your loved one's upcoming move.

Here are a few more tips to help make the move a little easier for everyone:

• Schedule the move earlier in the day - People with dementia can often get more agitated and confused later in the day.
• Unpack their room before they arrive - Make sure your loved one's new space is all set-up prior to their arrival! A calming space with familiar items will make your loved one feel comfortable and relaxed.
• Use the support offered by the facility - Some communities may have transition programs in place. Take advantage of those resources to make the move a bit smoother.

4. Make Them Feel At Home

It may take time for your loved one to adjust to their new environment, even if it the best memory care facility for their needs. Individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia can often feel frustrated or stressed by changes to their routines. During this difficult transition, there are some things you can do to help ease them into their new home.

• Personalize their space by placing their favorite knick-knacks, photos of family and friends, and other personal decorations around their room.
• Stay for dinner and play some games with the residents to help acclimate your loved one to the community.
• Create a plan to stay connected through in-person visits and virtual calls.

As you hit the road, remember to trust the staff! Memory care facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals that are specially trained in dementia care services. They'll do their best to help your loved one adjust to their new setting.

Visit The Best Memory Care Facility In Troy, IL

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your loved one's dementia care needs? If so, then it's time to start looking into memory care facilities near you and there's no better place to start than the Aspen Creek of Troy. Our memory care community has been specifically designed to foster a cozy home-like environment for our residents. With memory care professionals on staff 24/7, your loved one will be safe, comfortable, and happy in their new community.

Contact The Creeks today to schedule your in-person tour of the best memory care facility in Troy, IL.