It is not uncommon for parents to initially hesitate at the idea of moving from the home they own into an apartment. They are likely concerned about selling what they have worked so hard to maintain all these years, downsizing to a smaller space, paying a monthly rent over owning and losing the history and memories held inside their home.
While you know an assisted living apartment is best for your parents, be sensitive to their concerns. Make sure you listen to why they are apprehensive and take the time to ask about their fears or dislikes.
Along with having a conversation, schedule tours of communities together. Meet the staff together. Your parents’ minds will likely be put at ease when they see the modern assisted living communities with amazing services and amenities offered today.
As you prepare for the move, there are many things you can do to help ease the transition into their new assisted living home.
Tips to Ease the Transition into Assisted Living
- Talk to staff, especially those who will work directly with your parents. Make your mom or dad’s daily routine and personal preferences, such as bedtime, daily walks or mealtimes, known. Also, know who to contact when you have questions or concerns so you can quickly resolve any potential issues.
- Discuss your parents’ interests with the activity coordinator. Do they love playing cards? Swimming? Gardening? Staff can introduce them to fellow card players; volunteers can take them for a walk through nature. Many assisted living communities today offer an abundance of activities, as many residents want to remain active and social.
- Have some of their favorites in the living room: snacks, books, magazines or music. Favorite items at their fingertips can help ease the initial anxiety that is not uncommon during the transition.
- Create a family correspondence area. This could be a bulletin board for posting the latest pictures, a calendar with a schedule of planned visits and/or a tablet or mobile device that allows them to easily connect with family through social media, email or video.
The average resident takes about 3-6 months to adjust to a new lifestyle. If your parent isn’t quickly acclimating to the new climate, realize that there are steps to the process. Clue the staff into your concerns so they can keep a closer eye on your parent.
If your parent still isn’t adjusting after a bit of intervention, take the time to sit down and have a one-on-one conversation about what they need to feel at home.
