Helping Your Memory-Impaired Loved One Adjust

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Preparing to move your loved one into a skilled nursing or senior living facility can present challenges, especially when your loved one experiences memory impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia. A new environment can be stressful and confusing to them. We wanted to provide our community with some tips to help them adjust to their new residence.

Choose familiar items or photographs to bring with them.

Bringing items that are familiar and recognizable may provide comfort to your loved one. For example, instead of purchasing a new bedspread, bring the one they had at home. If they enjoy a certain book, or puzzle, or are attached to any specific item, bring that along too!

Encourage participation in activities.

Heather Hill offers many activities for your loved one to participate in daily. Getting involved in activities encourages social interaction and mental stimulation as well. Your loved one will stay mentally and physically active while it also provides something to divert their focus from any possible form of anxiety or distress about the new environment. The activities are fun and interactive, and there is something for all levels of cognitive function.

Be there for them.

Typically, people with memory impairments such as Dementia or Alzheimer’s adjust better to changes if a reassuring, familiar face is near them. Remember to be patient with them and understand that for them, this may be very scary and confusing. It may be difficult for them to remember details about you or who you are, but you can always spend time with them, do things with them and remind them that you love them.

Our staff at Heather Hill vow to provide only the highest quality of care to our residents. Our teams are skilled in handling the specialized needs of residents and families. We know that finding a skilled nursing facility can be difficult, especially for a loved one who may be experiencing memory impairments. Allow us to help ease your stress when choosing Heather Hill Care Communities.

Reach out to set up a tour or to speak directly with our Administrative Team.

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