Are you or a loved one considering assisted living? According to the American Health Care Association (AHCA) over 800,000 American seniors reside in these supportive, active communities.
Those who have already made the transition to assisted living benefit from maintenance-free living, individual care plans, social engagement, and much more.
However, despite the prospect of stress-free living and access to various amenities and services, the move can evoke mixed emotions for potential residents. Loss of independence, fear of the unknown, and sadness are often among them. Their loved ones may also have feelings of guilt and anxiety.
How can you alleviate some of these fears? This article provides practical tips for a smoother transition for both seniors and their families.
Understanding Assisted Living and Its Benefits
Assisted living is a residential living option for seniors who may need help or support with personal care including activities of daily living (ADLs) including:
- Dressing
- Showering or bathing
- Eating
- Moving from one position to another
In addition to personalized care, many assisted living communities offer a range of services such as:
- Housekeeping
- Security
- Medication management
- Recreational activities
The holistic approach these communities adopt encourages a healthy, active lifestyle with opportunities for social interaction and intellectual stimulation in a safe environment.
Preparing for the Transition
Deciding to move to an assisted living community isn’t always easy. Difficulty with daily activities, mobility issues, or a worsening medical condition are often reasons why it’s often the best option for some. If this is the case, here’s how to prepare for the transition.
Start Early
Early discussions about assisted living are important to help avoid rushed decisions and allow for thoughtful consideration. They can also help your loved one feel more in control of their future. It also provides adequate time for research to ensure you choose the best option and helps facilitate the creation of a moving plan.
Research Your Options
When researching your options consider location, services, amenities, and activities, and choose an assisted living community that best suits you. Create a moving plan that includes steps for organizing the move, such as timelines and checklists.
Many reputable organizations, including the Administration for Community Living (ACL), provide resources and strategies for effective transitions from various care settings to assisted living that cater to individual needs. These often include checklists and guides that can serve as practical tools for families navigating this process.
Declutter and Sort Belongings
Moving to assisted living is the perfect opportunity to declutter. Families can assist seniors in decluttering their homes before the move, by helping them to decide what to keep or donate.
Doing this lessens the number of items you have to move. It also helps reduce stress during the transition.
Practical Tips for Transitioning to Assisted Living
When family members frame the move positively, it can make the transition to assisted living easier. Focusing on benefits such as enhanced safety, socialization opportunities, and access to professional care can help alleviate fears. The following tips for senior transitions can also be useful.
Personalize the New Space
Cherished belongings can help create a sense of home. The familiarity associated with these personal items can significantly ease emotions while you adjust to living in your new space.
Consider incorporating:
- Family photos
- Artwork
- Comfortable seating
- Low-maintenance plants
It also helps to optimize your new apartment for comfort and ease of navigation. Prioritize accessibility by keeping pathways clear and arranging furniture to ensure your movement isn’t inhibited.
Establish a Routine
Once you’ve moved in and made your space comfortable, focus on creating a daily routine that includes your favorite activities. This is a crucial part of senior living advice as predictability can provide comfort during this adjustment period.
There may also be activities offered by the community that you’ve never tried before. You can slowly introduce a few into your routine including participating in field trips or lunch outings.
Plan Regular Family Visits
Family support during transitions is an important part of the adjustment period and can include regular visits, open communication, empathy, and reassurance. Family visits can provide great emotional support while their loved ones are adjusting to assisted living.
Having family engage with you in your new surroundings can help ease feelings of isolation. Other benefits include:
- Reduced loneliness and depression
- Cognitive stimulation
- Improved mood and overall well-being
- Preserving and strengthening family bonds
Express your feelings or concerns about the transition to family and staff members. Doing this helps them work together to find strategies to provide emotional support through the change. It also allows them to address issues that may arise.
Engage with the New Community
Social connections are important for mental and emotional well-being. They can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Participating in community activities can foster new friendships.
Engaging with other residents helps create a sense of belonging, boosts self-esteem, and stimulates cognitive functions. Meaningful interactions with peers can lead to a higher quality of life.
Utilize Professional Resources
If your transition to assisted living is proving to be more difficult than expected, you can take advantage of the available resources within the assisted living community. The community’s trained staff can help with your emotional or psychological needs as you adjust to your new environment.
Some communities also have programs that allow residents to transition faster and smoother. They will ensure you’re quickly familiarized with the community’s layout, amenities, and available services.
Successfully Navigating the Transition to Assisted Living
Leaving the familiarity of your home, downsizing possessions, and fearing the loss of independence are some reasons that make the transition to assisted living difficult. Having the involvement and support of family throughout the process helps. Proper preparation and following the practical tips outlined in this article can also make adjusting to the move smoother.
Morada Lawton makes the transition to assisted living even easier. We provide a fast-track program that allows residents to transition within 24 hours if needed. Our trained staff are ready to provide you with support with personal care plans tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to start enjoying the range of services and amenities our community in Lawton, OK, offers!
