As we age, we become more resistant to change, and the connection to home becomes stronger. To a person with dementia, home is their safe place, although it can be just the opposite.
While it is difficult to help your loved one with dementia understand that it’s time to leave home for their own safety, the possibility of moving to an entirely new community can carry a variety of emotions with it. Fear of the unknown and attachment to what’s familiar are normal responses to this kind of discussion. Couple a normal emotional response with dementia and having the conversation about leaving home becomes even more challenging.
In addition to these challenges, if you plan to move mom or dad closer to you, the thought of leaving the community they have lived in for many years can also be a challenging conversation.
The city of Temecula, California has a lot to offer aging residents, and is a desirable place for your loved one with dementia to call their new home. If you are considering moving a parent closer to you and looking for some great benefits you can share with mom or dad about living in Temecula, here are a few that make the top of our list:
- The Weather
Senior citizens are especially vulnerable to the impact of extreme weather patterns. For those with dementia, the cold, snow and ice can present challenges that go beyond discomfort and can have a severe impact on safety.
If your parent is unsure about relocating, perhaps the promise of the warm, sunny climate in the Temecula Valley area could be the enticement they need.
The average temperature in Temecula is a beautiful 76.5 degrees, allowing mom or dad to spend time outside year-round.
With sunny summers and cool, partly-cloudy winters, the infrequent rain won’t stop your loved one from enjoying the outdoors. Average precipitation is a mere 12 inches of rain a year.
Over the course of a year, temperatures average from a low of 41 degrees to a high of 89 degrees. Temperatures rarely drop below 34 or above 95 degrees.
- A Great Place to Grow Old
Temecula has earned a top 10 award for quality of life for the elderly. This could provide plenty of encouragement for your loved one with dementia to relocate to Temecula.
According to a recent study, California is ranked the 7th best state in the nation in which to grow old. The ranking is based on a study that incorporated senior living community reviews, nursing home costs and well-being of the elderly assessments.
California has plenty to offer its aging population with an overall ranking of 7th, a quality of life ranking of 3rd and a cost rank of 36th.
- Access to Medical Care
In their vulnerable mental and physical state, medical facilities are a must to consider when relocating a parent.
Residents in Temecula have access to several outstanding medical facilities. There are 11 hospitals in or near the city of Temecula. There are also hundreds of dentists, family practice physicians and specialists, eye doctors, urgent care facilities, and a multitude of specialty clinics ranging from physical therapy to outpatient surgery clinics to alternative health facilities.
The Temecula Valley is located between Loma Linda University and the University of California, San Diego, medical teaching and research hubs.
No matter what their physical challenge, your parent with dementia can be assured there is a medical professional in the vicinity to get them on the road to recovery.
- Memory Care Options
In addition to top-notch medical care, Temecula offers an excellent variety of both memory care and assisted living facilities.
The communities provide a safe, comfortable environment, while offering activities appropriate for seniors with dementia to help keep them active and engaged.
Cost varies depending on the location, type of care needed, the living space size, and level of luxury.
- Social Activities
Temecula offers many social opportunities and activities for its senior population. An active senior center provides classes, social events and community activities. The area is rich in history and culture. More than 40 nearby vineyards dot the scenic landscape.
There are numerous shopping venues, including historical Old Town and the Promenade. There are also museums and theaters to keep your loved one active and entertained. It is conveniently located between San Diego and Los Angeles, and is only a half hour drive to the ocean.
While their golden years might not be spent in the place they envisioned, Temecula, California could be just the place for your parent with dementia to put down new roots.
