Moving your aging parents to a senior living community can be complex and transformative. However, as challenging as it sounds, the transition to senior living can be easier with the family’s support. Planning and making necessary preparations can help throughout the shift, making it easier for all parties involved.
Here’s your guide to making a seamless transition to senior living with the help of the family.
5 Tips to Effectively Transition to Senior Living
Communicate honestly and clearly.
Open the topic of senior living to your aging parents early. You can ease them into the topic by having the conversation for weeks or months. Make sure you don’t overwhelm them by dropping it on them suddenly.
Be prepared to answer questions and be open about their concerns, needs, and preferences. This transition should involve both of you in the decision-making process.
Research senior living options
Find a senior living community that best suits your aging parent’s needs and preferences. Research the different senior living options and arrange a tour of potential communities.
Touring senior living options with your aging parents is ideal because it allows them to see the environment firsthand. As you visit different communities, note their concerns and address them accordingly. This way, they will feel that they are an important part of the conversation and the decision to transition.
Get to know the community.
Seniors often benefit from physical and mental stimulation. Encourage them to participate in the community’s programs and activities. These programs keep seniors engaged and socially active.
Having this opportunity in a senior living community positively impacts seniors’ mental and physical well-being. Also, participating in the activities allows them to explore new interests and gives them something to do daily.
Help with downsizing.
Prepare your seniors in advance to downsize and declutter their belongings. But do it slowly and step-by-step to give them time to adjust because this can be emotional. Having you there to support them through it is crucial.
Stay connected.
One of the most critical roles of the family in this transition to senior living is ensuring you stay connected. Plan visits regularly and let them know the schedule so they’ll have something to look forward to. Reassure them that you’ll keep in touch via phone calls, video chats, or emails.
Mountainside of Warm Springs – Promoting Healthy Senior Living
At Mountainside of Warm Springs, your loved ones will flourish and feel at home! We take pride in our personalized programs catering to each individual’s needs. Our experienced staff creates a safe space for every resident to thrive and feel comfortable. Click here to learn more about what we do. Contact us here if you have any questions or want to plan a visit.
