This episode of Hope Floats delves into the behaviors exhibited by individuals with dementia in advanced and memory care settings. We discuss building new relationships with caregiving staff, managing care expectations, and learning about typical behaviors that come with joining a new environment- particularly focusing on dementia patients’ tendency to explore others' personal spaces and the implications this has for families. It highlights the importance of understanding these behaviors as a natural part of dementia rather than as malicious actions. It also covers steps you can take to care for yourself as a family member and caregiver during this transition.

Takeaways

• Moving to a higher care level involves changes for everyone.
• Families should be prepared for unexpected actions.
• Communication with staff can clarify these behaviors.
• Understanding these behaviors can help families cope better.
• Families may be surprised by their loved ones' behaviors.
• Memory care facilities often have shared spaces.
• Dementia can lead to confusion about ownership of items.
• Empathy is crucial in dealing with dementia-related behaviors.
• In this transition, family members who were the primary caregiver can also reclaim some of their time and social support, since the loved one now has other care.

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