Transitioning into assisted living can be a big change for an older adult. This change can come with a lot of mixed emotions ranging from fear to excitement. Some tips for a smooth move into assisted living include:
None of these things will necessarily make for a perfect transition without any hiccups. But planning ahead so you know what to expect can go a long way to making an easier move. And considering the older adult’s personality who is making the transition is very important.
For example, they may need extra time to get to know the community in advance if they are already prone to having higher anxiety or stress. So, keep things like that in mind when preparing for the move with your loved one.
An assisted living community is a residential community that assists with daily living tasks such as bathing, grooming, dressing, medication management, and more. These communities often offer a wide range of services, including housekeeping, laundry services, transportation, meals, and recreational activities.
While an assisted living community is designed for older adults who require some assistance with daily activities, it’s not meant for those who require around-the-clock medical care. Long-term skilled care may be a better fit in a situation like this.
Assisted living communities are ideal for older adults who need assistance with daily living tasks but still want to maintain their independence. They are also a good option for those who have limited social connections and are looking to live in a community that offers a wide range of social activities.
Each family’s experience can be different when it comes to major life events like a transition into assisted living for an older adult in the family. But even a potentially complicated or stressful move like this can be made easier by considering a few tips for you and your loved one making the move.
Don’t wait until the last minute to start planning the move. Begin the planning process as early as possible so that you and your loved one have enough time to make decisions and get everything in order. Part of the early planning will be talking to the staff at the desired community and asking them questions about their services, amenities, and caregiving philosophy.
Moving into assisted living can be a big adjustment for the whole family. So, the planning process should involve everyone who will be affected to some degree. Ultimately, it’s still the older adult’s decision on where they want to live in most cases, but involving everyone can help make the process smoother.
Apartments or homes in an assisted living community are typically smaller than traditional homes, so downsizing belongings is important. Professional companies exist that can assist with this process. But if you’re starting the process early with your loved one, this could be something that can be done slowly over some time to reduce the related stress.
The physical move into the new community is only part of the transition. Once your loved one moves into assisted living, make sure they take the time to get to know your new community. If they are struggling with getting involved in the community, perhaps you can discuss this with their caregiver. Getting connected helps a loved one stay engaged and can lead to new friendships.
A positive attitude and a willingness to be flexible can make a big difference. Embrace the new experiences and opportunities that come your way, and remind your loved one that this is an exciting new chapter in their life.
Creating a familiar environment is crucial in ensuring the comfort and well-being of your loved one. Maybe you can help them decorate their new living space with their favorite items. This could be family photos, artwork, or any other mementos that remind them of their home. Bring in their familiar pieces of furniture to make the space feel more like their old home. These seemingly simple things can make a world of difference in how well your loved one transitions into a new chapter in their life.
Assisted living can be a wonderful way for an older adult to maintain as much independence as possible, even when they need assistance with some of their daily activities of living. The first step, after your loved one realizes they require extra help is to explore communities.
Contact us at Juniper Village at Guadalupe Riverfront if you or a loved one are considering assisted living communities in Kerrville. We’re happy to give you a community tour so that you can see first-hand what kind of care and support your loved one can expect to receive.
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