Step 1: Determine the Right Time for a Move
Families often struggle with knowing when to transition a loved one to a care facility. Signs that indicate it may be time include:
- Frequent falls or mobility issues despite home modifications.
- Severe hallucinations or delusions leading to distress or unsafe behaviors.
- Increased caregiver stress or burnout due to 24/7 care needs.
- Difficulty managing daily tasks such as eating, bathing, or medication.
- Wandering or getting lost, putting the senior at risk.
If home care is no longer enough, moving to a retirement home or memory care facility may be the best option.
Step 2: Choose the Right Retirement Home in Ontario
Ask questions regarding retirement homes to our experts
Not all retirement homes provide specialized memory care for LBD patients. Families should look for:
- Memory Care Units – Facilities with staff trained in dementia-related behaviors.
- Medical Supervision – 24/7 nurses and specialists who monitor cognitive and physical changes.
- Mobility and Fall Prevention – Handrails, grab bars, and safe layouts.
- Cognitive and Sensory Therapies – Music therapy, light therapy, and structured routines to reduce hallucinations and agitation.
Comparing Different Care Options in Ontario
| Care Option | Best For | Key Features |
|---|
| Assisted Living |
Seniors in early-stage LBD with minimal care needs |
Personal care support, meal services, social activities |
| Memory Care Unit |
Seniors with moderate to severe LBD |
Specialized dementia staff, structured routines, secure environment |
| Long-Term Care Home |
Seniors requiring 24/7 medical supervision |
Government-subsidized care, full medical support |
Use Ontario’s Retirement Home Directory to find a government-accredited facility near you.
Step 3: Plan the Move with Minimal Stress
1. Prepare the Senior for the Transition
- Have gentle conversations about the move in a familiar, calm environment.
- Use positive language (e.g., “a new home where you’ll be safe and comfortable”).
- Allow time for emotional processing and answer questions honestly.
2. Visit the Facility Before Moving Day
- Arrange for a trial visit or short stay if possible.
- Familiarize them with staff, common areas, and daily routines.
3. Personalize Their New Living Space
- Bring familiar objects, such as family photos, a favorite blanket, or a small piece of furniture.
- Create a cozy, home-like setting to ease the transition.
4. Choose the Best Time for Moving
- Plan the move during a calm period of the day when the senior is less anxious.
- Have a family member or trusted caregiver present to offer reassurance.
Step 4: Help Your Loved One Adjust to Their New Home
1. Maintain a Consistent Routine
- Encourage participation in daily activities and therapies.
- Follow a regular meal and sleep schedule to prevent confusion.
2. Support Social Interaction
- Introduce them to staff and other residents gradually.
- Encourage participation in low-stimulation group activities.
3. Monitor Their Well-Being
- Watch for signs of depression, withdrawal, or agitation.
- Communicate regularly with caregivers and medical staff.
4. Visit Frequently
- Frequent visits help ease loneliness and provide reassurance.
- Keep conversations positive and engaging, focusing on pleasant memories and familiar topics.
Step 5: Stay Involved in Ongoing Care
1. Attend Care Plan Meetings
- Work with the facility to develop a personalized care plan.
- Ensure that medical and behavioral needs are regularly reviewed and updated.
2. Advocate for Their Needs
- If symptoms worsen, discuss adjustments to care or medication.
- Request additional therapies or mobility support if necessary.
3. Maintain Open Communication with Staff
- Establish a point of contact for regular updates.
- Address any concerns about care immediately.
FAQ:
1. How do I know when it's time to move a loved one with LBD to a retirement home?
If home care is no longer safe or manageable, and the senior experiences frequent falls, severe hallucinations, wandering, or caregiver burnout, a memory care facility is the best option.
2. What’s the best way to prepare a senior with LBD for the transition?
- Have calm, reassuring conversations.
- Allow visits to the new home before moving.
- Bring familiar belongings to make the space feel like home.
3. How much does a memory care facility cost in Ontario?
- Costs range from $4,000 - $7,500 per month, depending on the level of care.
- Government subsidies are available for long-term care homes.
4. Can my loved one stay in assisted living, or do they need memory care?
Early-stage LBD may be managed in assisted living, but memory care or long-term care is necessary as symptoms progress.
5. What government financial assistance is available for dementia care in Ontario?
- Long-Term Care Home Subsidies (based on income).
- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) for early-onset cases.
- Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
6. How do I make sure my loved one gets the best care in their new home?
- Stay actively involved in their care.
- Maintain regular visits and communication with staff.
- Participate in care meetings and advocate for necessary services.
Transitioning a loved one with Lewy Body Dementia to a retirement home in Ontario is a complex process that requires careful planning and family involvement. By selecting a specialized memory care facility, preparing for the move, and staying engaged in their ongoing care, families can help their loved ones experience comfort, dignity, and quality of life in their new home.
Don't hesitate to contact us at 343 309 5289. We can help you choose the right establishment for you and assist you in your search.
