Updated 4/6/22
Assisted senior living communities or aging at home association are great options for the safety, health, and well-being of senior citizens. One could argue that there’s no better alternative to nursing home placement as it’s been proven to be helpful in a lot of ways. Making the transition from living independently to being placed on assisted living support can be a difficult task for an aging person.
Elderly people who move into senior citizens’ homes are often required to leave their belongings behind. Helping them sort through their most prized belongings, and assisting them in selecting those that they will take with them will make their new surroundings feel more like home. These may include a favorite couch, photographs, and other sentimental stuff.
Although aged care independent living provides help, it doesn’t necessarily pass for a medical facility. It is your responsibility to ensure that all recommended medications are available and taken as prescribed by your loved one. It is also important to check that over-the-counter and prescription medicines are kept up-to-date.
One of the prolific ways for new residents to get comfortable in their new living quarters is to get involved and socialize with others. Most homes offer a broad range of activities, so that your loved one can maintain an active lifestyle. From exercise classes to field trips, there’s no dull day for your loved one.
When you help a friend or family member move into a supportive living or adult assisted living program, it can be difficult for them to adjust to their new surroundings. Supportive living allows seniors to maintain much of their independence, but that doesn’t mean the change will be easy.
Here are a few ways to help your loved one get used to their new assisted living center:
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- Bring Personal BelongingsNothing says home like a favorite hand-crocheted blanket or an old photo of family. Make sure your friend or family member brings along plenty of personal items and keepsakes that will keep them connected to their home. This can help them with the emotional side of moving and will eventually help them see their new supportive living as home.
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- Encourage Them to Try a Community ActivityMost senior housing options have several activities that community members can participate in. Try to get your friend or family member into at least one. Maybe they participate in weekly bingo night or join a book club. Maybe they travel to local places of interest with other members of the community. Participating in the community is a great way to stay social and active.
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- Encourage Them to Keep an Old HobbyAs important as it is to try new activities, it can be even more important to maintain old ones. Enable your friend or family member to continue a routine or hobby that they had before they moved. Get the same newspaper delivered, or make sure their room is stocked with knitting supplies. This will help maintain a sense of normalcy.
- Stay in CommunicationStaying in regular contact with your family member or friend is often the key to keeping them comfortable. Make sure they have a phone or other way to contact you and their friends, and make a point to contact them as well. Send flowers or deliveries once and a while, and make sure you visit on a regular basis to show your ongoing support.
The most important thing you can do for your loved one is remind them that you’re there for them. Keep in touch and stay supportive and the transition should be a little less harsh.
