Transitioning an elderly loved one – even one who is completely willing and acceptant – into a senior living community is a challenging endeavor that is often fraught with a high level of emotion. You will often find that your loved one experiences many issues.
They may mourn for their loss of independence, their home, and even the fact that they are moving into a period of life where they are facing their own mortality. They may be frightened because of the changes that they are facing, having to adjust to a new living space, and realizing that they are no longer capable of living life on their terms.
In this guide, we will present you with a few survival strategies on how to make this process as easy as possible.
Communicate Freely and Openly Discuss the Options
Your elderly loved one is likely vested into the home and the life that they will have to leave behind when moving into a senior living community. They will likely be apprehensive and highly emotional.
It is important that you communicate freely with them about the move and openly discuss the options that they have at their disposal. By allowing them to experience some feeling of control, you may find that they are more willing to accept the move and it is easier, overall.
Make a Plan
When moving an elderly loved one into a senior living community, you must determine how much space that they have and then compare it to that which they have in the home that they are moving out of.
You will need to determine what they want to take with them and if they have the right amount of space to accommodate those belongings. Once you determine how much may be taken, discuss it with your loved one.
Always include them in all decisions -even little ones, like what figurines or pictures to take. This will be their new home, not yours. It is important that it is as comfortable as possible for them.
Act as Their Advocate
All senior living communities are different. While similar in many ways, they have their own unique way of handling things, their own rules, and so on and so forth. You should act as an advocate for your elderly loved one.
Do not hesitate to speak up if a rule or procedure is not suited for your loved one. It is always possible to make arrangements and work with the facility to ensure your loved one’s happiness and safety. For example, if light out are earlier than your loved one typically goes to bed, inquire as to whether they may stay up later.
In most instances, facilities will work to ensure your satisfaction. By acting as an advocate, you can be the “voice” for your loved one’s contentment level.
Contact Us Today
In addition to the steps listed in this brief guide, you may also obtain a senior living specialist to assist you and your loved one in the transition from there home and the new senior living community. These specialists act on behalf of your loved one to ensure that they are matched with the best community for their individual needs.
They will work closely with you and your family. We here at Beacon Senior Advisors specialize in these services, and they are completely free! For more information, contact us today by calling: 973-713-0096