The process of moving seniors to an assisted living facility can be relatively simple or very difficult based on how the transition is handled. While many seniors are thrilled to be moving to a facility that offers the opportunity to downsize and make new friends, there are others that perceive this move as an act of abandonment and a loss of freedom.
Utilizing these 7 expert tips will guide you through organizing the move to make it as seamless as possible and decrease the likelihood of your family member becoming stressed about the situation.
Prior to Moving
Allow Them to Choose
It should come as no surprise that your loved one should be involved in the process of choosing the assisted living facility they will be moving into. Also, encourage them to address their concerns, listen to their thoughts, and react accordingly. Allowing your loved one to choose the facility that they like best (as long as it meets their needs) will go a long way in preventing unnecessary stress.
Allow Sentimental Belongings
While downsizing, it is essential to make certain that your loved one is taking several of the things that are most beneficial to them, whether it is photos or a certain blanket. If your loved one is a pet owner, be aware that there are some assisted living facilities that accept pets. Moving their pet in with them can significantly decrease anxiety.
Meet the Staff
Make certain that your loved one has been introduced to the staff and several other residents, if possible before they make their move. There will be far less worry on their part if they are familiar with others, as well as the facility.
Help to Control Their Emotions
It can be emotional for a senior to see the home they have lived in for many years being emptied of their things. As a result, it is suggested that you take them to a different location when the majority of their things are being moved. Take them to a relative’s house, out to lunch, or somewhere fun to keep them engaged until their room has been set up.
Getting Settled In
Personalize Their Room
Make certain that their room is arranged the way that they want. Also, help them personalize their new space with photos and other mementos. It is beneficial to let them take the lead and put the things the way they want, or to instruct you to help them with the arrangement.
Let Them Enjoy Their Goodies
As long as the facility agrees, make certain that they have snacks and drinks that they enjoy in their room for easy access. You want to do as much as possible to make their new home as familiar as their old one.
Conquer Any Fears or Doubts
Acknowledge that this is a massive transition for them and encourage them to express their feelings. Don’t brush off their fears or make light of the transition. This is an enormous move for them, and it will require a lot of love and attention on your part for the foreseeable future.
Other Suggestions for Moving Seniors to an Assisted Living Facility
Whatever you do, don’t become a stranger after your loved one has gone. You need to call and visit them more often than you did before. If you don’t, they will feel that you abandoned them. It’s not important how much fun they might have at their new location or how many new friends they meet, their family is still relevant to them.
Conclusion
Moving seniors to an assisted living facility can be a positive change for them, if it is handled correctly. It requires love, patience, and understanding how seniors feel.
Think ahead to how you want to be treated when you are their age and provide them the same respect that they deserve.
If you are looking for an assisted living and memory care home in the Denver area, contact Applewood Our House. We two homes in Arvada, two in Lakewood, and one in Golden. We hope to see you soon!
We are moving my grandma to an assisted living facility and my mom and dad and I want to make sure the transition goes smoothly. I like how you give the advice to personalize their room with photos and other mementos. This will make sure that my grandma feels right at home and doesn’t ask us to move back home.