CAREGIVER CORNER

Transitioning Care

Helping your loved one enter assisted living
A woman hugs her relative.

The decision to transition your loved one into a memory care facility or assisted living is a difficult one. If you’re experiencing caregiver burnout, your loved one’s care needs are increasing or the relationship with your loved one is deteriorating, transitioning care is likely the best decision to make for everyone.

This is a challenging change for many, but there are several ways you can make this transition easier:

• Bring items from home: When moving your loved one into a new place, bring items from home that are important to them or have sentimental value, as these items can help them feel more comfortable. Avoid packing valuable or expensive things that can’t be replaced.
• Make consistent visits: Before moving your loved one, bring them to the facility for a visit so they can start familiarizing themselves with their new environment. Once they have settled in, schedule times during the week when you can visit. The best time to visit is typically during meal times or activity times so you can participate with them.
• Speak to staff: It’s important you make connections with the staff that will be caring for your loved one, as they are essentially taking over your former role. Forging a strong relationship with staff can make it easier for them to come to you if there is an issue or concern with your loved one.

Resources
These transitions can bring up a lot of intense emotions for your loved one and your family, but remember you’re not alone. Here are several additional resources you can check out:


AssistedLiving.org — assistedliving.org
Senior LinkAge Line — mn.gov/senior-linkage-line
Medicare — medicare.gov
Blue Cross Caregiver Corner — caregivercornermn.com
Minnesota Nursing Home and Assisted Living Report Card — alreportcard.dhs.mn.gov