Moving into assisted living can be stressful for everyone involved, but there are ways to make it easier. When it’s time for a loved one to move into assisted living so they can get the help they need, there are a few steps to take to ease the transition. Use all of the following steps to help the loved one get settled into their new home.
Talk About What to Expect
Before getting into assisted living, it’s important to talk to the loved one about what to expect. They may be afraid that they’re going to have to give up all of their independence or that they won’t see their loved ones anymore. Talk to them about what to expect, when people will visit, and more to help ease their mind and get them excited about new potential opportunities.
Find the Right Community for Their Needs
It’s crucial to make sure the community they move into is going to be perfect for their needs. Different assisted living facilities may provide different levels of care, more personalized assistance, and other amenities designed to help the senior. Talk with the senior about what they need or want in a community and look at the different options with them to help them pick out something that’s going to be a good fit.
Take Care When Packing to Move
It is important to take care when packing to move. Though the space they’re moving into may be spacious, they likely can’t take everything with them. It’s likely they’re going to need to downsize, so go through everything to see what they need to pack and decide with them what to do with everything else. Having them involved in this process can help them ensure they have everything they need or pack any sentimental items they don’t want to leave behind.
Take Time for the Transition
One move-in day, make sure there is plenty of time to spend with the senior so they have help as they get settled into their new home. It’s often beneficial to bring some snacks they enjoy or to sit and have a cup of tea with them so they don’t feel like they’re being left behind in the new home. Make sure to help them unpack and help with anything needed to make them feel comfortable in their new space.
Get to Know the Community
In the first few days at the new community, take the time to help them meet the neighbors, get involved in different activities, and start finding out what they can do to get to know their new home. Helping them get settled can make it easier for them to get used to the new home and find things they enjoy doing so they don’t feel lonely.
It can be hard to transition into an assisted living community, especially for seniors who have always been independent and may be worried about losing their independence. However, this is a safer place for them to be as they age and the community can provide the help they need while still enabling them to be as independent as possible. When it is time to move, follow these five steps to help your loved one get settled in easier.
