10 Tips to Stop the Effects of Transfer Trauma

Folks with dementia, Alzheimer's, or memory loss can experience can face anxiety. They may have moved from one environment to another and it can be stressful. There is a term called, “transfer trauma”. It ranges from brief, mild, or non-existent, to intensive and long-term, depending on the individual. The more extreme cases usually involve someone with early stages of dementia who is moving from the long-time family home into a new environment.

10 Tips to Ease the Effects of Transfer Trauma

1. Talk to the staff at the new facility to make sure they can recognize transfer trauma. Do they have a protocol in place for new residents? How often do they check on residents? Will they contact you if they suspect transfer trauma?
2. Include the person suffering from dementia in the decision in what new facility to choose, if possible. If the new resident has a say, they will likely feel more comfortable there and may even look forward to the move. The person suffering from dementia has their own desires and they can best recognize which facility will most promote their individuality. 
3. If possible, allow the new resident to visit the facility before the big move. Take them to introduce them to current residents and staff, tour the rooms, and observe some group activities held at the facility. It could be terrifying anyone to move into a new home unseen! 
4. Those suffering from dementia usually have a time of day that they feel best. Make the move during this time. 
5. Encourage the new resident to make new friends and take advantage of the new facilities. Have a family meal in a common area, get a cup of coffee at the facility café, check the mail, attend community events, etc.  If the new resident is religious, visit the facility church, synagogue, or mosque. Does the resident like art or knitting? Find groups that pertain to their hobbies.
6. Make the living areas of the resident feel more like their old home. Hanging family pictures, keeping the favorite blanket handy, or installing an air freshener with a familiar scent will make them feel more like they have not made the move at all. Tidy and organized rooms make the resident feel the way they wants.
7. Get a new pet, if the new facility allows animals. A friendly cat can provide companionship and a sense of purpose. A hamster, bird, or fish is a great alternative. Check with the staff to ensure that not only that furry friends welcome, but also that the staff checks on the pets to ensure they are being properly cared for. 
8. If the new facility doesn’t allow pets, consider a robot companion. Yes, you read that right! Professor Mahoor and his team at the University of Denver have invented a robot companion who can read facial expressions and respond appropriately, giving companionship and providing help like medication reminders.
9. Don’t be afraid to get help. If your loved one is suffering from transfer trauma, looking for services of a psychiatrist or social worker can be helpful. They can best assess the situation and provide steps toward healing in this transition. 
10. Visit the individual often in their new home! Seeing friends and family can bring calmness and happiness to your loved one. Letting them know that you are still there for them and even in a new environment, it does not mean there will be a change in your relationship. 



Moving away from a long-time family home into a new facility can be stressful and overwhelming. Recognizing the signs of transfer trauma, which can include sadness, irritability, shutting down, refusing care, poor appetite, or sleeplessness is imperative. The person suffering from dementia may call 911 and may feel like they are being imprisoned or wanting to leave. Don’t dismiss their concerns – really listen to them.



They may not have the ability to change their circumstances, but it is important that they feel worthy of being heard, understood, and given opinion. Things will get better. Hopefully any effects will decrease over time and diminish completely when the they feel confident and comfortable in their new surroundings. 

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