Moving a person with dementia too frequently can pose several serious risks, both physically and mentally. Frequent moves disrupt their sense of familiarity and routine, which are crucial for people living with dementia to feel safe and oriented. This disruption often leads to increased confusion, anxiety, agitation, and behavioral problems such as resistance or withdrawal.
Physically, relocating can increase the risk of falls and injuries because the person must constantly adapt to new environments that may be unfamiliar or unsafe for them. The stress from moving also affects sleep patterns negatively and can worsen overall health by weakening immune responses or exacerbating existing conditions.
Mentally, frequent changes in surroundings can deepen disorientation and cognitive decline. People with dementia rely heavily on consistent cues from their environment—like familiar objects, smells, sounds—to ground themselves emotionally. When these are missing due to constant moving, it often results in heightened distress or depression.
Behavioral symptoms tend to worsen after moves because the loss of known spaces makes individuals feel insecure. They might become more irritable or combative as they struggle to understand where they are or why things have changed so abruptly.
Caregivers should be aware that while some movement is sometimes necessary—for medical appointments or social outings—excessive relocation without proper preparation increases risks significantly. To reduce harm when moving is unavoidable:
– Keep routines as consistent as possible before and after the move
– Bring familiar items like favorite clothing or personal belongings
– Use clear communication with simple explanations about what’s happening
– Allow plenty of time for adjustment rather than rushing transitions
– Provide emotional support through calm reassurance
Ultimately, minimizing unnecessary moves helps maintain stability in a person’s life with dementia. Stability supports better physical safety and emotional well-being by preserving familiarity—a key anchor against confusion in an otherwise challenging condition.
