We just moved my dad into a memory care residence and he had the caregiver call me so we could speak and he says the facility is a prison. They don't allow anyone to go outside at night which he loves to do but he doesn't understand that it's for his safety. I don't know what to do or say to him to make the transition easier for both him and me. I don't want him to feel imprisoned but it's for his own good. I'm at a loss of what to do.
When you visit, make sure you go for a walk with him. Does the facility have a courtyard where the residents can go if accompanied by a relative. If so, maybe you could visit in the evening and take him outside. If there are benches, sit for while and talk. Overcoming our loved one's (and our own) emotions and feelings isn't easy, but you know you've done the right thing. You might want to say something like, “I know it's a new place for you, dad, but I'll be over tomorrow to spend time with you”. It'll take time to adjust for the both of you. But you will.
The fact he can not go outside at night, the doors are locked I am sure he feels as if he has been imprisoned. But that will pass as he gets used to his new surroundings. Part of that will come as he declines and his world will get smaller.
Tell dad that he is safe.
Tell dad that you love him.
I do like the other suggestion that maybe you can visit in the evening and take him outside?