Moving a loved one into a memory care residence is an emotional and significant transition. At The Cordwainer in Norwell, MA, we understand that families want their loved ones to feel comfortable, safe, and truly at home in their new surroundings. While our thoughtfully designed memory care housing provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, adding personal touches can make all the difference in creating a familiar and reassuring space. Here are some ways to help your loved one feel at home in their memory care suite.

Incorporate Familiar Items

Familiarity is key to helping individuals with dementia feel at ease. Surrounding them with meaningful items from their past can provide comfort and reassurance.

• Bring favorite blankets or pillows that have a familiar scent.
• Display cherished photographs of family, friends, and beloved pets.
• Include treasured keepsakes such as a favorite clock, lamp, or figurine.
• Incorporate artwork or decorations that reflect their personality and past interests.

Adding these personal touches helps reinforce positive memories and provides a sense of stability in a new environment. However, ensuring the space remains calm and organized is equally important.

Create a Calming Environment

A thoughtfully arranged space can contribute to a sense of security and well-being.

• Use soft lighting to create a warm ambiance.
• Keep pathways clear to ensure security and prevent confusion.
• Limit excessive clutter to maintain a soothing, organized space.
• Consider using calming colors and textures that are easy on the eyes and provide comfort.

By designing the space with tranquility in mind, you can create an atmosphere that promotes relaxation and minimizes anxiety. Beyond visual comfort, incorporating sensory elements can further enhance a sense of well-being.

Provide Sensory Connections

Dementia can heighten sensitivity to sensory input. Incorporating comforting sensory elements can help your loved one feel more relaxed and engaged.

• Play their favorite music or calming sounds using a small speaker.
• Use familiar scents with lightly scented candles or essential oil diffusers (if permitted).
• Provide a cozy, textured throw blanket for comfort.
• Offer fidget or tactile items, such as a soft stuffed animal or a sensory quilt.

These sensory experiences can be both soothing and stimulating, helping to create positive emotional connections. Another way to enhance familiarity is by maintaining daily routines and personal rituals.

Personalize with Routine and Comforting Rituals

Routines help individuals with dementia navigate their day with a sense of predictability and ease.

• Keep a daily routine that includes familiar activities and rituals.
• Set up a favorite reading chair or a special place for a familiar hobby.
• Incorporate cherished bedtime routines, such as a favorite book or nighttime tea.

Establishing these comforting rituals fosters familiarity and reduces confusion. Another important consideration is selecting the right furniture.

Choose the Right Memory Care Furniture

Selecting the appropriate memory care furniture can enhance both comfort and safety within the residence.

• Opt for dementia-friendly furniture with rounded edges and sturdy support.
• Choose chairs and beds that provide easy accessibility and promote independence.
• Incorporate multifunctional storage solutions to help keep essentials within reach.
• Use color-contrasting furniture to improve visibility and reduce confusion.

Well-chosen memory care furniture can make a space feel more intuitive and functional, enabling greater independence. Finally, staying connected with loved ones and the broader community is key to a fulfilling and engaging experience.

Engage with Community and Family Connections

Feeling connected to loved ones and the community can greatly enhance a sense of belonging.

• Visit regularly and bring along meaningful activities to enjoy together.
• Decorate seasonally to reflect special holidays or family traditions.
• Display a digital photo frame with rotating pictures of family and friends.
• Encourage letters, cards, or small mementos from loved ones to be placed in their room.

At The Cordwainer, we strive to create a nurturing environment that feels like home while providing expert memory care. By incorporating familiar and comforting elements into your loved one’s suite, you can help ease their transition and enhance their quality of life.

Living Spaces That Support Residents

The Cordwainer is a community in the South Shore optimized for memory care. With sensory gardens and beautiful outdoor spaces that are accessible year-round, and intentionally designed suites with security in mind, you and your loved one will feel at ease. Experience comfort and care that brings peace of mind in Norwell, MA, and schedule a tour today!