You may find yourself questioning if your loved one is ready to transition to an assisted living facility. But when you begin to see indicators of early dementia or challenges performing simple activities, the timing may be right. This is often the best opportunity to tour memory care facilities and consider your loved one’s assisted living options.
Moving a loved one to assisted living can initially be met with defiance. It’s a difficult transition for a formerly independent adult to move to an assisted care facility and to admit they need help with everyday tasks. For many, they are leaving the home where they created all of their family memories – the memories that they are now beginning to lose.
While choosing to move a loved one to assisted living is never an easy decision, there are ways you help to make it a smooth transition.
Choosing an Assisted Living Facility
- Give Your Loved One a Voice in the Decision: For many, the idea of moving into an assisted living situation results in feeling a loss of independence. You can ease the loss of control over their own life by including the future resident in the decision-making process. Take them to tour different assisted living facilities, and listen to their thoughts as to which feels more like a potential home. Consider what they liked or didn’t like, and make sure they understand that their opinion matters. By including them in the decision-making process, you protect their sense of control and importance.
- Make a Plan: If you want to make moving to an assisted living facility an easier transition for your loved one – and for yourself – make a plan. Once you’ve decided on the right assisted living facility, find out as much information as you can. Consider the square footage of your loved one’s new home, and discuss what they can bring. Moving to a senior care residence often includes downsizing and it can be stressful. Work with your loved one to decide what m0ves with them, and what cannot. By making a plan before your loved one moves, everyone knows what to expect and it makes it an easier transition.
- Gather Family Together: Many elderly people fear that once they move into an assisted living facility or memory care residence, their family will forget about them. The fear of abandonment is very real. This is a new experience and what your loved one needs the most is their family’s support. Gather everyone together for moving day, and make it a memorable family event. Their family’s help and presence as they make this transition will make a positive difference. Because life does tend to get busy and days can slip by, consider making a schedule for which days/weekends a certain family member will visit. By consistently visiting and showing your loved one your support, you’ll make their new home feel more comfortable and happy.
- Make Them Feel at Home: While your loved one is no longer living at home, we can work together to ensure that their new surroundings eventually feel like home. Consider decorating their new apartment with artwork that they love. Place family photos around their new living space to remind them that they have a family that loves them. When you visit, bring a favorite dessert or a game/activity that they enjoy. Continue family traditions, and if possible, come and take them to family events such as birthday parties and celebrations.
While it’s never an easy decision to move your loved one to an assisted living facility, know that you’re making the best decision for them and that it can be a positive transition. At A Banyan Residence, we’re committed to providing compassionate care for everyone that calls our facility “home.” Come and tour our Venice location today, and let us show you how.
