Ways You Can Help Your Loved One Transition into Assisted Living

Even when you know it’s the right choice, moving a loved one comes with a range of emotions. If you find yourself having doubts or worries, that’s normal. Any major life transition can bring both joy and sadness. While this move involves letting go of some things, it also brings the chance for your loved one to enjoy new adventures. By focusing on this new chapter, you can help a loved one transition into assisted living and adjust to his or her new home.

Settle into Assisted Living with These Tips

As a caregiver, you want your loved one to feel content and comfortable. That includes making it as easy as possible to settle into assisted living. While the first few weeks may be hard, it gets easier. And there are a few things you can do in the first days to encourage your loved one. Use these tips to better support your loved one’s needs.

1. Add familiar objects – Before the move, pull together items that will make their new place feel like home. Surround them with familiar objects like photos, blankets or quilts, or meaningful collectibles.
2. Use labels – It can be hard to find items in a new place. Help your loved one limit frustration by labeling everything. Use labels on drawers, boxes, and kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
3. Be patient – Transitioning into assisted living can take time. So remember to be patient with yourself and your loved one. Support your loved one by reminding them of the many benefits of assisted living and why it’s the right fit.
4. Schedule visits – During this transition, encourage friends and family to visit when possible. If you can’t visit in person, make a video call or phone call schedule and ask loved ones to commit to routine chats with your loved one.
5. Plan outings – It can help when your loved one spends some time outside of their new community. Take them to activities they enjoyed when living in their previous home or simply go for a walk together.
6. Get involved – One great way for your loved one to settle into assisted living is through joining community activities. This not only helps them connect with others, but it also can boost their mood. The National Institute on Aging says seniors who do meaningful activates feel happier and healthier.
7. Support independence – Ask staff if there are options to support your loved one’s hobbies or focus on tasks they can do on their own. By giving them the care and support they need, your loved one will feel empowered to do what they enjoy.
8. Save surprises for later – Too many new things at once can be overwhelming. Wait until after your loved one adjusts before adding new gadgets or furniture to their home.
9. Keep it positive – Even when you feel many emotions, try to stay strong for your loved one. If they express regrets or sadness, it’s OK to recognize those feelings. But try to do it in a way that stays positive.

In the end, remember to give yourself and your loved one some grace. Transitioning to assisted living doesn’t happen overnight. The most important thing you can do is to be there to support your loved one—whatever they’re feeling or need. You’ll get through this transition together.

Get to Know More About Signature Pointe Assisted Living

It’s easier to make the transition to assisted living when you feel confident about the community. Signature Pointe is dedicated to helping our residents and families feel supported and encouraged so that every resident can thrive. Contact us today or schedule a tour to find out more.