Any senior facing the need to relocate to a new home faces many stressors. A senior experiencing cognitive impairment like those suffering from dementia-related illnesses, may feel even more overwhelmed and out of sorts. While family members and caregivers may understand that this move is necessary and in the senior’s best interests there are many emotional consequences that need to be considered and properly addressed. Here are a few tips for relocating a senior loved one who suffers from dementia:
1. Timing.The best time to move your loved one will be when they are in stable condition. If the person recently suffered an injury or illness requiring a hospital stay, it is often best to wait a period of time before relocating the person to a new residence. This may not always be possible given the medical condition, but it is easier on the person if they are feeling physically stable and free from injury and illness during the moving process.
2. Provide Information. Do not attempt to secretly relocate this person. Involve the senior as much as possible in the decision-making. Provide information about options and allow the person to exercise as much control as he or she is able given the mental condition. Be very positive and encouraging about the new location as well as the transition process. Provide the senior with a step-by-step plan, even if it needs to be repeated often.
3. Limit the Number of Moves. Try to anticipate future needs to minimize the number of times relocating will be necessary. Many assisted living facilities have the ability to upgrade services as the needs present themselves.
4. Consider Routines and Habits. Take note of the senior’s daily routines and habits and try to ensure that those do not alter too significantly in the new location. Keeping the same schedule and routine makes the transition feel smoother.
5. Familiar Objects. Take familiar furnishings, accessories, photographs and objects to the new location for consistency.
6. Introduce New Layout. Have everything moved and in place prior to bringing the senior in to view it. The new layout may need to be introduced repetitively and consistently.
7. Frequent Check-ins. After the move, continue to routinely check in with your loved one to ensure he or she feels secure in the new location. Keep an upbeat, positive attitude and point out the good features of the new residence.
At Stouffer Legal, we care about our seniors and understand the difficulties caregivers face. Relocating a senior suffering from dementia can be a huge challenge. For more information on the elder law services offered by our law firm, contact the experienced elder law attorneys at Stouffer Legal in the Greater Baltimore area. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (443) 470-3599 or emailing us at office@stoufferlegal.com.
