Assisted living can be a lifeline for a senior, but it comes with challenges. You can make it easier for your senior loved one by being there for them every step of the way. Learn how to support your loved one as they move into assisted living.
An assisted living community is built to cater to seniors’ needs, with delicious food, comfortable living spaces, social activities and events, and fun amenities to explore. But even if your loved one is excited about this transition, change is difficult. How can you help your loved one settle in and make the most of their new community?
ASSEMBLE A SUPPORT TEAM
No matter how complex or straightforward a move into assisted living might be, it becomes more manageable if you have plenty of help. Reach out to the people who care about your senior loved one and offer the opportunity to assist. You’ll find people who can visit your loved one, help them run errands and settle in after the move, or provide a friendly ear to listen. You can also reach out to the staff at the community your loved one is moving into and see what help they can provide with the process.
VALIDATE THEIR CONCERNS AND GIVE IT TIME
Did you know that moving is one of the most stressful life events a person can experience? No matter how excited someone is about moving into a new community, there will always be some issues that need to be resolved. You can help by listening and validating your loved one’s concerns. Don’t brush them off, but hear them out and let them know you’re taking their concerns seriously. At the same time, remember that it can take a senior up to six months to adjust to their new lifestyle fully. Encourage them to be patient and work through any issues that arise as they acclimate.
CREATE A FRIENDLY, FAMILIAR SPACE
Make their new living space feel like home by ensuring familiar comforts are close at hand. As you help your loved one pack and downsize, set aside a box of things that will make their new space feel like home, and ensure that the box is present and easily accessible on their first day in their new community. Focus on items that provide them comfort, like favorite blankets and sweaters. Framed photographs and sentimental souvenirs can also be used to decorate and make a space feel more familiar.
HELP THEM EXPLORE THEIR NEW HOME
Sometimes, all the amenities and perks of assisted living can be a little overwhelming. If your senior loved one isn’t sure how to make the most of their time in assisted living, help them adjust by visiting regularly and encouraging them to take advantage of all the great things their community offers. Join them for meal times and help them make friends, or make time to be present at a game night or field trip. You can advocate for your loved one and provide the emotional support they need to feel at home in their new space.
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Are you or a loved one ready to move into assisted living? We hope this guide will help, but if you have more questions, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Waterstone on Augusta.
Are you seeking a premier assisted living and memory care community in downtown Greenville, South Carolina? Visit us at Waterstone on Augusta. Our community is relaxing and elegant, and we strive to enhance the quality of life of the seniors we serve through teamwork and unity. To learn more about our amenities and to view our lovely community, please schedule a tour online or call us today at 864-605-7236.