Moving to memory care can be a tough transition for your parent. However, they will benefit in several areas of life.
Our community, Westminster Place, is supportive and luxurious for residents with memory problems. We offer several convenient amenities and services. Contact us today at 903.329.6520 to get started on moving a parent to memory care—the best place for them.
The Impact of Moving Someone with Dementia
You probably worry about your parent’s reaction to moving to memory care. At Westminster Place, we understand the impact of moving someone with dementia, and we’re here to help.
While changes and transitions can be difficult for seniors with memory problems, sometimes they’re necessary. Moving to memory care is a great first step toward your parent’s improved health and well-being.
In our memory care community, your parent will receive top-notch assistance from licensed nurse clinicians who truly care for them. Their medical, physical, and emotional needs will always be met.
Navigating Tough Feelings when Moving a Parent to Memory Care
You may encounter negative emotions from your parent when you talk to them about memory care. That’s okay. They’re likely stressed and confused, and they have the right to feel those emotions.
The best way to react is by validating their feelings. This will help them feel cared for and understood.
You can use phrases like these:
- “I understand you’re scared to move, Mom. I would be, too.”
- “Seems like you’re feeling really angry about this. I hear you.”
- “Change is scary, and anyone in your shoes would feel upset, too.”
- “It’s okay if you feel hurt. I’m here to listen to you.”
- “I’m hearing that you feel betrayed by the move, and I understand.”
Any of these validating statements can help ease the tension between you and your parent. After all, it’s a major change in both of your lives, and they’re bound to have strong opinions on it.
When to Talk About Moving to Memory Care
It’s best to talk about the move during neutral times throughout the day. These can include mealtimes, free afternoons, and during personal hygiene and grooming rituals.
If you wait until evening, your parent will likely be more agitated and less receptive to what you’re telling them. The evening is a notoriously difficult time for seniors with memory problems.
Having tough conversations during neutral times will remove extra stress and frustration for your parent. They can focus solely on what you’re saying instead of being distracted by their environment.
Highlight the Positives
Besides validation, your parent needs to hear all of the positives about moving to memory care. Avoid using negative language that could scare them away from the idea.
For example, instead of saying, “Memory care has staff to watch you and make sure you don’t get hurt,” try this phrase: “In memory care, you have a whole team dedicated to helping you.”
Making simple positive statements can ease your parent’s mind and help them look forward to the move.
Bring It Up Multiple Times
Dementia can severely impact your parent’s memory and mood, so make sure you talk to them about memory care more than once or twice. They need repeated exposure to the idea, especially if they live with severe memory loss.
It may not seem like it, but repeated conversations can ease the transition into memory care for both of you. Your parent will start to recognize what is happening and may even become excited about the move.
Move into Westminster Place for Optimal Memory Care
Ready to choose the best place for your parent with dementia? Westminster Place is here. Contact us at 903.329.6520 to discuss our memory care options.