Moving is complicated no matter how old you are. Aside from the rollercoaster of feelings, you need to sort through your cabinets, pack your clothes, and clean whatever is left, which may be all mentally and physically tiring. Though a unique experience might be exciting, the change could be challenging to process, specifically for older people.
If you are already planning for your senior loved one’s transfer to a senior living facility, ask these two things to yourself. “How much money can we afford?” and second is, “what kind and level of care do they need?” Make sure to discuss these with other family members before searching for the right community.
As soon as you pick what you believe is the most suitable, what you need to do next is to help your loved one get ready for the relocation that can be challenging. The biggest problem in this stage is the adjustment to the new environment and living with new individuals. Below are 6 simple but helpful tips to help you and your loved ones in handling this transition:
Know the Best Practices for Downsizing
Look around your house and see what they need to bring and what not. By this time, you have probably visited the retirement community, so you would know if there’s much room for your loved one’s belongings. Search for helpful advice online or ask the people you know who can give you advice on the best techniques in downsizing.
Recreate a Familiar Surrounding
The faster they make the retirement community their new home, the quicker they will adjust. This can happen by making it a home away from home. While it might be tempting to sell their old things and purchase new ones for a fresh start, this might be harder for them to settle in.
Ensure that the household belongings they treasure the most will have a place in their new residence. Additionally, organize their room the way they like it.
Get Involved
Before the special day, you can ask your senior loved one to participate in activities and other events in the retirement community you selected. If possible, ask the workers if they can visit sometime and get to know other residents. This helps reduce their anxiety when the moving day arrives.
That’s why choosing the right retirement home is crucial. You want a facility with staff that is helpful when needed. During your search online, it’s important to visit their website and check out their “About Us” or “We” page to have an idea of who they are. Also, always read testimonials and reviews, whether from their webpage or other pages, if they match what you’re looking for.
Make a Plan and Schedules Regarding Family Visits
After their move, you could be tempted to check them out every day. But this may be a bad idea because you keep them from getting involved and making friends. On the other hand, you don’t want them to feel abandoned, particularly during this adjustment period.
It’s always best to establish a routine when friends and family can visit. This helps encourage them to join new activities and socialize more within the community. At the same time, you are making sure there is a stable stream of visitors.
Consider Planning a Welcome Party
A welcome party can be an excellent way to help your loved one conquer this transition, where they can invite their fellow residents. This gives them something to expect and an opportunity to show their new home. You can talk with the dining staff and ask if they can help prepare snacks.
Expect and Prepare for Emotional Times
After all your efforts, there will be some problems in the process. There are days when they end up being emotional, resulting in conflicts and stress on your part. Remember to tell yourself and your loved one that this is a normal part of the change and that everything will be okay in the coming days.