Life change of any kind is a significant time for families, especially when a parent or family member requires extra support and memory care. The mix of emotional processing and figuring out logistics at the same time is challenging, which is why VOANS is dedicated to being a supportive partner during the transition.
From answers to questions about what to bring and what not to bring for the move, to thoughtfully designed studio apartment units, to suggestions about how to make the new space feel like home, our team is here to make the transition to memory care as comfortable as possible. In addition to our memory care studio apartments, we create supportive communities designed to ensure residents living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or other cognitive decline can live their lives to the fullest.
Why a Studio Apartment Is the Best Option for Memory Support Residents
When deciding on the best kind of living space for a loved one with memory care needs, it’s important to look for places that are not only safe, but also encourage independence, comfort, and overall well-being. Studio apartments designed for memory care are uniquely positioned to fulfill these needs, featuring layouts that are safe, cozy, and easy to navigate. Studio apartments also naturally reduce clutter and distractions, which can help reduce anxiety and confusion while helping residents feel secure and independent.
At VOANS, our memory support studio apartments offer these essential design features along with privacy, access to 24/7 care, and a robust community with a wide range of planned activities and events.
Packing Thoughtfully Matters When Moving to a Memory Care Apartment
Packing a loved one to move to a memory care apartment can feel overwhelming, but a few guidelines can help make the decisions easier. VOANS encourages each resident to personalize their apartment with belongings that reflect their life story and are personally meaningful. For residents living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, these kinds of familiar items offer comfort and positive memories while also helping to reduce anxiety and confusion.
By making thoughtful decisions about what your loved one brings to their new memory care apartment, you can play a part in ensuring their new space supports their emotional, physical, and mental well-being — one of the key tenants of VOANS’ holistic care philosophy. Here are some of our most important tips on what to bring and what to not include in the move.
What to Bring to a Memory Care Studio Apartment
As a general rule, a blend of comfort items, memory aids, activities, and daily essentials will help ensure your loved one has everything they need after moving to their new space. Here are a few examples of what we recommend including on a memory care move-in checklist.
Personal Comforts and Familiar Touches
- Favorite sweaters, cardigans, and other cozy clothes
- A special blanket, quilt, or throw
- Family photo albums, framed pictures, or other cherished keepsakes
- Books and small hobby items that provide joy
- An animal plush that reminds your loved one of a favorite pet
Practical Daily Essentials
- Toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, lotion, and soap
- Bath towels and washcloths
- Bedding including sheets, pillowcases, and favorite pillows
- Lamp with soft lighting, a small clock, or night-light
Memory Aids and Activities
- Large-print calendars and simple organizers
- Puzzles, magazines, or faith-related items
- Small décor pieces that reflect personality
- Favorite music on an easy-to-use-device — some devices will allow family to preprogram them to play the resident’s favorite music on repeat
What Not to Bring to Memory Care Apartments
In the midst of creating a list and packing, remember that not every item will be suitable for your loved one’s new apartment. Some things that shouldn’t be brought include large or bulky furniture like sofas or oversized armoires, as well as hazardous and breakable items including glass, sharp tools, and candles. Other things to avoid include potentially unsafe appliances like hot plates, toasters, and space heaters, or items like extension cords or throw rugs that can be easily tripped over. It’s also important to not overpack — keeping choices simple by not including excessive clothing will help limit confusion and anxiety.
VOANS Memory Care Community Apartments
If you’re looking for thoughtfully designed apartment spaces with exceptional memory care options and welcoming communities for your loved one, check out VOANS’ memory care locations. All of our communities offer distinct lifestyles and community options, from the spacious beauty of The Homestead at Anoka to the mix of lovely natural and city-adjacent settings at The Homestead at Rochester to the unique 19th-century farmhouse aesthetic of the Elder Homestead. No matter how your loved one wants to live, there is the perfect new space for them to call home.
What VOANS Provides in a Memory Care Studio Apartment
VOANS provides a number of items and services for our memory care residents to ensure they have the mental, physical, and emotional support that they need, including:
- Furnishings: bed, dresser, and nightstand
- Services: housekeeping, laundry, meals, life enrichment programs, and staff support
- Utilities: heat, air conditioning, basic cable, and Wi-Fi (in most communities)
- Safety Features: grab bars, walk-in showers, and a secured environment
Offerings may vary by community, so be sure to speak with the staff of each specific location for detailed guidance.
Tips for Moving Into a Memory Support Community Apartment
When you’re helping a loved one pack to move into memory care, ease into the process. Packing all at once can be overwhelming, confusing, and anxiety-inducing, so be sure to pack gradually. Throughout the process, include your loved one in choosing meaningful items they want to bring, especially photos, letters, or other keepsakes. And while you pack, always keep in mind that the goal is to create a safe, personalized space that feels as cozy and home-like as possible.
Making a Memory Care Studio Apartment Feel Like Home With VOANS
At VOANS, we want all of our memory care residents to feel at home and supported from the moment they move in. To make this transition as easy as possible, it’s important to strike the right balance of essentials and personal comfort items — without creating unnecessary clutter or confusion. The right belongings can help your loved one’s new memory care studio apartment feel safe, familiar, and home-like as soon as they move in.
VOANS is proud to partner with families during every step of the transition process in order to make the move as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you want to learn more about our memory care apartments or set up a personalized tour of one of our memory support communities, contact us today — we’d be happy to help in any way we can.
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