Five Important Things to Bring with You into a Memory Care Community

Often Families ask me what I recommend they bring in, when moving their loved one into my community. They find it a bit difficult to choose from so much their loved one has collected throughout the years. I tell them while downsizing is important, this should not be their focus at this time. That there will be plenty of time for them to work on that. I recommend bringing in what their loved one will need. What will make their transition in this new stage as comfortable and as less overwhelming as possible.

Clothing, I recommend items that are used often by the individual. I ask them to look for clothing that will withstand frequent washing. Clothing that is easily put on and removed if possible. Since it is expected that their loved one will at some point struggle or currently is struggling with dressing independently. These clothes should not cause them to feel frustrated but instead should give them some sense of control, and make getting dressed for the day something to look forward to rather than something they dread. When packing include accessories as they form a part of their individual style. I really enjoy seeing my resident’s face light up when someone compliments them on either a scarf, vest, hat or piece of jewelry they choose to wear. We want to help them preserve their sense of style. Let’s not forget appropriate, comfortable shoes and sleepwear. Especially if they tend to wander in the evenings.

Personal care products, Even though my community and others out there offer toiletries as part of the services, I still recommend families to take a look at how important personal care products are to their loved ones. Do they have a favorite lotion, cream, soap or shampoo? Have they used the same product for years? If so then they should want to provide. By families providing these favorite items they are helping their loved one feel that their routine has not been completely changed.

Bedding and Linens, when moving into a community bringing in familiar beddings and lines give a feeling of home in a new and sometimes overwhelming environment. Having a familiar, comfortable blanket over their bed helps a resident identify which is their bed especially if in a shared room. Having them laying down on familiar bedding will also help in keeping residents in their bed longer as they won’t feel they are in a strangers bed and have the urge to get up from it.

Electrical items, if they form a part of your loved ones routine bring it. This can be a radio, television, and phone or even an iPad and or computer. Just because they have moved into a community does not mean they can’t continue to enjoy and use these items. Many communities such as mine have caring and helpful staff always willing to assist if needed with setting up or assisting in the use of these items.

Now last but not least. Decorative items, bring pictures, art, stuffed animals and or furniture pieces that tell a story, trigger memories and help your loved one feel that this is their space. These items should help them to connect and feel a sense of ownership to their new home.

I believe that with focusing on these five important things, you are helping your loved one have an easier, shorter transitioning period in a place that will help them thrive and receive much needed care in a safe and comfortable environment. This will also give you peace of mind that you are doing what is best for them.

Contact me for any questions or visit our website at: www.calsonmanagement.com email: grace@crescentoaksmc.com