How to Move a Parent With Dementia to Assisted Living

Moving a parent with dementia to assisted living is a decision often marked by mixed emotions and uncertainty. However, this transition can be made smoother and less stressful for everyone involved if you take the proper steps and offer your loved one the support they need.

Preparing ahead of time can help reduce confusion and anxiety, allowing your parent to adapt more comfortably to their new environment. The best way to move a parent with dementia to a senior living community is by planning early, communicating openly, and finding ways to maintain familiar routines.

Helping Your Parent Transition to a Senior Living Community

Transitioning a loved one to a senior living community involves logistical planning and emotional support. Taking proactive steps and preparing your parent in advance can help them adapt quickly to their new setting. 

Often, seniors with dementia may feel disoriented or anxious when introduced to a new environment, so providing continuity and a sense of familiarity can be comforting. Small things like bringing along treasured or familiar items or establishing a visiting routine can help make the transition smoother.

Maintaining open communication is essential. Engage your parent in the process as much as possible, even if that only means small choices, like choosing decorations for their room or deciding when they’d like visitors. You can make the transition easier by breaking the process down into more manageable steps and focusing on creating a comfortable environment that feels as close to home as possible.

Steps for a Smooth Transition

1. Plan Early: Research communities that offer memory care services, then involve your parent in decisions, if possible.
2. Communicate Gradually: Introduce the idea of moving to your parent gradually rather than all at once.
3. Create Familiarity: Bring along photos, favorite blankets, or small furniture pieces to recreate a sense of home in your parent’s new living space.
4. Visit Regularly: Frequent visits, especially early on, can ease anxiety and help your parent adjust.
5. Stay Patient: Give your parent time to adjust to their new environment without rushing.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living provides a supportive environment for seniors who may need help with daily tasks but still want to maintain some independence. These communities offer assistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management. Residents typically live in private or semi-private apartments, with access to common areas for socializing and activities. The result is a sense of community and security.

One key benefit of assisted living is that it provides a safe and structured environment. The goal of the style of care is to help residents live as independently as possible while still receiving essential care and assistance whenever they need it. Assisted living communities can be a viable option for seniors with memory loss.

As memory loss progresses, however, seniors living with dementia may need to transition to memory care. 

Who is Assisted Living Designed For?

Assisted living is best suited for seniors who value their independence but need assistance with daily activities. It’s ideal for those who may find living alone to be challenging or otherwise unsafe, but who don’t require more comprehensive care.

What is Memory Care?

Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living designed for those living with dementia or other memory-related conditions. These communities provide a secure and supportive environment where residents can receive care tailored to the needs of those experiencing cognitive decline or memory challenges. 

In addition to standard assisted living services, memory care communities offer structured routines, therapeutic activities, and spaces that minimize triggers for anxiety and disorientation. These programs help residents feel safe and comfortable, and allow them to maintain as much independence as possible while providing the support they need.

Signs to Consider Memory Care

Deciding whether memory care is the right choice for your parent can be challenging. However, certain signs indicate that a person may need a more specialized level of care. If your parent has been experiencing increased memory loss or exhibiting other behaviors that make daily living challenging, it may be time to explore memory care. 

Knowing these signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia can help you make informed decisions about your loved one’s care:

• Wandering: If your parent frequently gets lost or confused, memory care communities offer secure environments to prevent wandering.
• Aggression or Agitation: Changes in behavior, such as increased anger or frustration, can indicate a need for specialized care.
• Difficulty with Daily Activities: If your parent struggles with dressing, bathing, or eating, memory care staff can provide the assistance and encouragement they need.
• Increased Confusion: Memory care communities are structured to help reduce disorientation and provide a consistent daily routine.
• Declining Health: If your parent’s physical health is declining due to forgetfulness or poor self-care, memory care can provide comprehensive support.

Find Support at Mira Vie Senior Living

At Mira Vie Senior Living, we understand the unique needs of seniors with dementia, and we offer compassionate, professional support to help them thrive. Our memory care program is designed to provide a safe, structured environment focusing on comfort, independence, and specialized care. 

Let us help make the transition easier for your family. Contact us today to learn more about memory care options at Mira Vie and schedule a visit!