Tips for an Easier Transition into Assisted Living

If you’ve started to notice a decline in the mental or physical health of a loved one, it might be time to discuss a transition into assisted living.

Making the Transition into Assisted Living Easier

During the transition to assisted living, older adults may go through an adjustment period as they adapt to a new routine, get settled into a new living space and meet new neighbors and staff. They may also mourn the loss of their long-time home and all the memories it was filled with. In some cases, they could even feel like their independence is being taken away. However, you can help your loved one face these changes, making sure he or she becomes as comfortable as possible throughout the adjustment period.

Here are five ways to make the transition into assisted living easier for your loved one:

1. Focus on Quality Time. Throughout the “mourning phase,” family members should be prepared to provide their loved one with extra attention. Assure him or her that you will be there every step of the way, from helping with the move to visiting or calling as often as possible.
2. Visit Before the Move. Help your loved one get acquainted with staff members and other residents by visiting the new assisted living community before the move. This will allow both of you to get a true feeling for the surroundings and provide peace of mind that your loved one’s needs will be promptly attended to and that other residents enjoy living there.
3. Give Them Space. While it’s important to visit or call frequently after the move, give your loved one time to settle in and adapt to the new environment. Allow him or her to feel in charge of making decisions, even if it’s just about where to place personal items in the new living space. Becoming too overprotective can be counter-productive in helping your loved one maintain a sense of independence.
4. Create a Home. It’s likely that your loved one will be downsizing from his or her current home when transitioning into assisted living. While not all personal belongings can make the move, pick out some knick-knacks, keepsakes or photographs that hold cherished memories. Familiar items will make the new living space comfortable and homey and will help ease some of the mixed feelings your loved one may feel.
5. Encourage Social Participation. Social wellness is vital to the overall quality of life, so your loved one should be encouraged to get to know his or her neighbors and take part in the many scheduled social activities the assisted living community offers. You can even attend some of the activities with him or her initially to help your loved one make some new friends and stay busy. Often, providing your loved one with the reassurance that he or she is simply entering a new phase of life can make all the difference in a successful transition into assisted living.

Assisted Living Options at Advent Christian Village

Advent Christian Village is a faith-based senior living community in beautiful Live Oak, Florida. We offer a full continuum of care that grows with our residents as they need it, from home ownership in independent neighborhoods to our compassionate assisted living and skilled nursing care.

At Dacier Manor, Advent Christian Village’s assisted living option, community members enjoy bright and cheerful private or semi-private rooms that can be customized to feel just like home. Schedule a tour today – we welcome people of all faiths and walks of life. We’d love to share what life at Advent Christian Village could be for your loved one.