Moving a senior away from home life and into senior living is a tough change. It can cause stress, anxiety, and even depression for some. However, if you prepare correctly and provide support, transitioning into a senior living community can be an exciting next stage in life.
Here are a few tips that care control of Walnut Creek is put together to help make this tough but exciting time easier for the seniors and their families.
Understand the Benefits of Senior Living
Comprehensive Care and Support: Senior living communities are not all the same. They are arranged depending on the level of care the senior needs. They can be more easygoing, like independent living, or more in-depth and secure, like memory care and assisted living.
Community and Activities: These communities provide different opportunities for social interaction, mental and physical activities, and even wellness programs that greatly enhance quality of life. Understanding all of these amenities that the facility offers can make the transition seamless like a fun and exciting journey.
Preparing for the Move
Plan Ahead: Begin planning the move as early as possible. This type of move will take some getting used to, even if the senior is excited about this next stage of life. Planning way ahead helps reduce stress and gives everyone more time to adjust to the idea.
Downsizing with Dignity: Downsizing is often necessary but can be sensitive. Make this a family event with the senior to see what they are okay with parting with. Most of us have collections of items and things that we forget about or don’t need anymore. The last thing you want is for the seniors to feel like they have no control over what is happening.
Visit Before Moving: This can help the family and the senior form relationships with the staff and residents. This can also make it more exciting for the seniors as they look forward to meeting new people.
Integrating into the New Community
Stay Involved: Encourage your loved ones to participate in the community’s activities. This can help them form new friendships and integrate more quickly into the community.
Regular Visits: Make sure to call and visit as much as possible. Continued involvement from family and friends can help make the process easier and help them still feel the family.
Patience and Support: Transitioning to senior living is a major life event. Patience and emotional support from family members can make this easier. Remember, they might have good days and bad days while adjusting.
CarePatrol of Walnut Creek can help guide you through every step of the process, from selecting the right community to moving in. Call us today for a free consultation.
