Moving into a new home is a stressful time for anyone, and arguably even more so for seniors. Change of environment and routine can be taxing and uncomfortable, especially when transitioning into an assisted living community. There is an adjustment period that seniors may go through in order to gain back a sense of security and contentment in their living situation. Luckily, there are things you can do as a family member or caregiver to make your loved one’s transition a little bit easier.
- Ensure your loved one has advocates – As a family member or caregiver, it’s important to identify advocates who ensure a smooth transition for your loved one, as you cannot be present at all times. At many assisted living communities these people are called resident liaisons. One of the main roles of a resident liaison is to help new residents adjust to their new living situation.In addition to these resident liaisons, Senior Living Associates will continue to support seniors and their families as they transition into their assisted living community. We are there every step of the way, from start to finish, to ensure you are completely satisfied and comfortable in your new home.
- Communicate – During the first few weeks of transition, communicating with your loved one and listening carefully to their feedback is important. It’s good to catch things that aren’t meeting their expectations early on so that they can be fixed. During the first few days and weeks, it’s acceptable and encouraged to visit to make sure everything is going smoothly. This will also show your loved one that you haven’t abandoned them and that you care about their wellbeing.
- Give Space – While it’s good to make sure your loved one is settling into their new environment, it’s important to strike a balance and avoid being overbearing. Don’t hover or hold their hand. Allow them to explore their new home and engage with their new community on their own. Let your loved one make friends, discover activities, and learn more about what the facility has to offer. They’ll eventually be on their own, so at some point you have to let go.
Transitioning into an assisted living community can be scary and stressful, both for families and loved ones. But with communication and teamwork, the transition can be successful. Adjustment takes time, but once your loved one has gained a sense of comfort and security in their new community, you will be able to breathe a sigh of relief.
