Cape Coral Memory Care: How to Transition with Dementia

When a parent or loved one develops Alzheimer’s or any other variation of dementia it can be a daily challenge to keep them safe at home. It is also a challenge to be able to always keep an eye on them since they are at a higher risk of wandering or getting injured. When it gets to a point where it is impacting your wellbeing and your loved ones it might be time to find them a Cape Coral memory care community that is close to home. Our team at Cypress Cove put together a list of tips for transitioning someone with dementia into memory care.

1. Identify the best time of day for your loved one.

   • Individuals with dementia often have a time of day where they are more relaxed and easier to communicate with. For example, it is common for seniors with dementia to suffer from sundowner’s syndrome. If this is the case for your loved one schedule the move in the morning instead of late afternoon or evening.

2. Preparation is key.

   • Over the next few weeks before the move, try to keep track of what they interact with most and what they seem to gravitate towards. Before they move in, bring these key items to their new Cape Coral memory care community, and put them in prominent places that fit their routines. This will help them associate this place as their home from the moment they walk in.

3. Music or TV shows.

   • If they have a favorite album or tv show that they often have playing in the background. Turn on that sound softly for when they arrive so that it helps them feel less stressed or anxious.

4. Talk with the staff.

   • If you know that your loved one often talks about specific family members or memories. Make sure you share this information with the staff so that they know what to talk about when the topic is brought up. You can even put together a scrapbook that is easily accessible for them to discuss with your parent or loved one.

5. Stock their cabinets.

   • If they have a favorite snack and it does not impact their health negatively or cause any allergic reactions, buy a few boxes of it, and keep their cabinets stocked with their favorites. Even though they have access to gourmet dining it does not hurt to have your favorite comfort snack nearby.

If you are looking for a Cape Coral memory care community like Cypress Cove and have questions about the senior care options, give us a call! We are always happy to help answer any of your inquiries.