How to Help Your Loved One Transition to Assisted Living

Moving your loved one to an assisted living facility can seem daunting. It’s not uncommon for seniors to experience hesitation about making a life change, but planning could ease the transition.

Finding the Right Assisted Living Facility

It’s never a bad idea to start considering assisted living, even if your parent doesn’t require it. That gives you more time to prepare and make the right decision based on your loved one’s needs. It’s especially important to start searching if your mom or dad is showing signs that it’s time for assisted living.

Here are some other questions to consider:

• Where is the facility located? How far is it from family and friends?
• How much does assisted living cost? Does the cost vary depending on the level of care?
• What amenities and features are available to residents?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
• Are there different meal and dining options?
• Does the facility have an activities program?
• Are pets welcome at the assisted living facility?
• What are your parent’s requirements for assisted living?

Schedule a tour of potential facilities and watch how the staff interact with the seniors. Be mindful of each resident’s appearance and engagement. A quality assisted living facility must be centered around resident care and should reflect that in the well-being of each person.

Preparing for the Move

Downsizing for a senior community could create a sense of sadness or anxiety. Be strategic when it comes time for your loved one to pack by breaking the task down by room. Essential items include clothes, toiletries, medication, furniture and bedding.

Focusing on the necessities can make packing less stressful because your parent won’t have to go through all their belongings at once. Ask the assisted living facility staff if they offer moving services to take the responsibility off you and your loved one.

How to Support Your Loved One After the Move

Allow your mom or dad to express themselves openly. Whether your loved one has accepted the transition to assisted living or not, they’re likely to experience a variety of emotions. Be patient and give them opportunities to voice their opinions.

You can also help your loved one get accustomed to their new home by:

• Visiting them frequently
• Decorating their space with familiar items and keepsakes
• Getting involved in group activities or outings
• Having dinner together
• Scheduling visits with friends and family
• Encouraging them to pursue their interests and hobbies
• Participating in seasonal events and programs

Some seniors experience a sense of abandonment or loneliness when they move to assisted living. Provide reassurance that you will continue to visit them in person and ask the staff to help your parent make phone or video calls.

Factors That May Affect the Adjustment Period

It could take weeks, months or longer for your parent to feel comfortable in their new surroundings.

The adjustment period is influenced by your loved one’s attitude toward their situation. They may feel uncomfortable at first and try to keep to themselves, or they could embrace their community right away.

The location of the assisted living facility may also take some getting used to, especially if your parent moved from a different city or state or is far from loved ones.

Learn About Embassy Healthcare’s Assisted Living Facilities

Our dedicated staff will help your parent every step of the way during their transition to assisted living. We offer personalized care that suits your loved one’s needs, including meal planning, wellness management and social engagement.

Embassy Healthcare has assisted living facilities in Ohio and Florida. Call 216-378-2050 or schedule a tour online.