The transition from independent living to assisted living is one of the biggest transitions your parents will make in their golden years. The feeling and worry and anxiety are bound to be experienced by everyone involved in the process. Thankfully, there are numerous ways you can play an active role in this transition. You can reduce their anxiety by being alongside them during the process, making their transition to assisted living so much more hassle-free.
Make Sure To Choose the Right Community
It is important to put in the time and effort of choosing the right place. The inconvenience of packing and moving to another place immediately after choosing a community is not worth it. Make sure to do research with your parents to ensure that the community chosen is a good fit. Drop by the community and talk to the caregivers and those who hold leadership positions. Take note of the cleanliness and the friendliness of the team members. If possible, try to determine whether the residents look happy in their environment. You can also talk to the residents for additional insight into their experience staying in that community.
Make Time For Them
It is not unusual for residents to feel abandoned during their transition to assisted living. Create a regular visiting schedule, especially at the beginning of your parents’ transition. This provides them with a sense of security by knowing that they can still count on you to be present during various times of the week. Play a board game, work on a puzzle, watch a movie, or simply just have dinner with them. Spending time will remind your parents that they have not been forgotten.
Make Friends with the Neighbors
A benefit of assisted living is that your parents will be able to socialize regularly and form a strong social circle with other residents. Encourage them to talk to their neighbors and also remind them that the residents were once transitioning too. Not only they could be really good friends, but also a good resource for information and support.
Pack Efficiently Before the Transition
Helping your parents downsize for the transition is not an easy task, but it can be accomplished with little love, patience, and organization. Create a list of things to decide what to keep from their years of collected belongings. It is important that they bring things that will fit in their new home but also make It feel like they are at home. Start with the necessities and things they will need in their new home and deal with the rest when they are settled.
Make the New Place Feel Like Home
It is important to make the place feel like home as much as possible. Display sentimental objects, include family photographs, and bring along some of their favorite possessions. Do everything so you can bring some touch of home to their new space as we all know that leaving your home is hard.
The move may be a difficult one, but it can be made easier with support from family and friends. By following some of our tips, you can eliminate their worry which ensures a smoother transition.
