Facing the reality that a parent with dementia needs more care than you can provide at home is an emotional experience. The decision to move them to an assisted living community often comes with a mix of guilt, relief, and concern. But it can also be a great opportunity for your parent to discover the freedom and fun that comes with having your daily needs cared for.
When you’re moving a parent with dementia to assisted living, remember to plan ahead, bring familiar items, and find a community that suits your parent’s lifestyle. With some care and consideration, you can make this transition a breeze!
Understanding Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses various conditions affecting cognitive functioning. It occurs when brain cells become damaged in some way. The most common types include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
Dementia can progress differently for each person, but there are some general stages you can watch for. Understanding what your parents are going through can help you make informed decisions about their care needs.
The early stage of dementia often involves mild memory loss and confusion. Your parent might still function relatively independently but could start needing help with complex tasks. In the middle stage, symptoms become more pronounced. They may struggle with daily activities, experience mood swings, and exhibit behavioral changes. Late-stage dementia requires around-the-clock care, as your parent may not recognize family members and could lose the ability to communicate effectively.
Recognizing these stages helps you gauge the right time for assisted living, ensuring your parent receive the appropriate support when they need it most.
Signs It May Be Time for Assisted Living
Deciding when to move a parent with dementia to assisted living is never easy. However, certain signs can indicate that home care is no longer sufficient to fulfill their activities of daily living (ADLs).
One major reason your parent may need assisted living is due to safety concerns. Your parent may be at risk from dementia symptoms such as:
- Wandering
- Forgetting to turn off appliances
- Experiencing frequent falls
- Missing appointments
- Forgetting to pay bills
If you’re currently caring for your parent yourself, another sign could be caregiver burnout. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or depressed, it might be time to consider professional help. Some people mistake this as a sign of weakness and something that can be ignored, but it’s a serious situation.
No matter how much you love your parent, constantly caring for someone with dementia can be exhausting—especially when you have your own health to manage as well. In time, burnout can affect your ability to care for your parent.
Social isolation is another red flag. It could even worsen their dementia. If your parent is feeling, moving to a community with fun social activities and new friends can significantly improve their quality of life.
Preparing for the Move
Once you’ve decided that assisted living is the right option, preparation is key to a smooth transition. Start by having an open and honest conversation with your parent. Explain why the move is necessary and emphasize the benefits, such as better care and social opportunities.
Ensure that all necessary legal documents, like power of attorney and health care directives, are in order. Review your parent’s finances to understand what they can afford and explore options for financial assistance if needed.
Planning the logistics of the move involves organizing belongings and deciding what to take to the new living community. Involving your parent in this process can make them feel more in control. Create a checklist to ensure you bring along everything important, and schedule the move for a time that’s least disruptive to their routine.
Choosing the Right Assisted Living Community
Selecting the right assisted living community is crucial for your loved one’s well-being. Start by researching facilities in your area and reading reviews. Visit each community to get a feel for the environment and ask questions about their care services, staff qualifications, and resident satisfaction.
Consider the specific needs of your parent. Does the community offer specialized dementia care? Are there activities and programs tailored to individuals with dementia? Pay attention to the staff-to-resident ratio, as a lower ratio often means more personalized care.
Location is another important factor. Choose a community close to family members to encourage frequent visits. Additionally, consider the amenities offered, such as private rooms, outdoor spaces, and dining options. A comfortable and familiar environment can significantly ease the transition for your parent.
Making the Transition Smooth
Helping your parent adjust to their new home is essential for their well-being. On moving day, keep the atmosphere calm and positive. Bring familiar items from their house, such as photos, blankets, and personal mementos, to create a sense of familiarity in their new home immediately.
Visit your parent frequently during the initial weeks and encourage other family members to do the same. Let them know they’re still loved and you’re not abandoning them. On the other hand, some people want to settle into their new space and could want some distance. There are plenty of fun things to do in the community! It all comes down to open communication about their needs.
And, of course, stay in close contact with the community staff to monitor your parent’s adjustment and promptly address any concerns.
A New Home Awaits in Franklin
If you’re ready to learn more or take the next step, contact us for a tour of the Symphony of Franklin community. Our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and help you and your parent through this transition.
Navigating this journey is never easy, but with the right information and support, your parent can receive the comfort they deserve. Reach out to book a tour today!
