Moving a parent into assisted living is a significant change that can affect your whole family. While it can provide many benefits, such as professional care and social opportunities, it can also take some time to adjust to. If you’ve noticed that your parent may need assistance to adjust to their new living situation, there are several things you can do to help.
With the right knowledge and support, you can help make sure your parent adjusts and thrives in their new environment. Allow them to express their experience, visit often, encourage them to socialize and engage in activities, and keep their environment personal and cozy. Most importantly, show empathy and understanding when they are feeling overwhelmed.
Have an Open & Honest Conversation
As your parents age and require more care, you begin to consider the benefits an assisted living community can offer. It’s essential to have an open and honest conversation with your parent about their feelings and experiences regarding this transition.
While it may be difficult to broach the topic, approaching it with compassion and understanding can help ease any anxiety or fears they may have. Ask them about their concerns and listen attentively without interruption.
Expressing your concerns and highlighting the potential benefits of assisted living can also help ease their worries. Remember, the decision ultimately lies with your parent, and having an open dialogue can help determine that their needs and wants are being met.
Visit Often & Make Sure Your Parent Is Comfortable
Moving to a new environment can be an exciting opportunity for your parent, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. To help your loved one feel welcome and comfortable, it’s important to visit them often.
It can be a new, overwhelming environment, but spending quality time will allow both of you to solidify a new routine together. By showing compassion and providing helpful assistance, this can be a smooth transition that’ll bring you closer to your parent.
Encourage Them to Participate in Activities
One of the benefits of joining a senior living community is the opportunity to socialize with others. Encouraging your loved one to participate in activities can help them form new relationships and build a sense of community.
From group outings to game nights, there are numerous options available to help residents connect with others and enhance their quality of life. Talk to your loved one about the activities available and encourage them to join in on some that spark interest. By participating in these events, your loved one can feel more engaged, fulfilled, and connected to the world around them.
Help Them Organize Their New Living Space
Even if your loved one is excited to move into a new space, it may take some time to feel comfortable in a new place. One way to ease that stress is by adding personal touches throughout the space. Adding photos of loved ones, artwork, or sentimental objects can add a comforting touch while also showcasing their personality.
You can also decorate with items that inspire them, such as favorite quotes or colors. Adding plants is another great way to bring life and vibrancy into your new space. Not only do they purify the air, but they also offer a sense of tranquility and can help to create a peaceful atmosphere. By taking the time to add these personal touches, their new living space can soon feel more like home.
Learn About Available Resources & Benefits
When looking into assisted living communities, it’s essential to consider the available resources and benefits they offer. Recreation programs, in particular, can be incredibly beneficial for seniors and their overall well-being. These programs can help your loved one stay active, socialize with others, and engage in fun activities they may not have access to at home.
From fitness classes to art workshops, assisted living offers a diverse range of recreational activities to cater to different interests and abilities. Additionally, seniors may have access to other resources, such as transportation services and on-site medical care. You can explore these options with your loved one to help them feel supported and comfortable in their new community.
Show Empathy
Empathy plays a significant role in assisting your parent as they transition to a new environment. This is the right time to wear your empathetic hat and help your parents settle into their new home. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know that you understand how they feel.
Offer a listening ear and provide any emotional support that they may need as they adjust to their new surroundings. Even simple gestures like taking a walk around the neighborhood can do wonders to make them feel more at home.
The Next Step Forward
When you approach the transition to assisted living with patience and understanding, you can help your parent feel at home and find a sense of belonging in their new community.
If you’re looking for more help and advice on how to help your parent transition to living in a senior living community like The Parkdale Senior Living & Memory Care, contact us today. We can answer any questions you may have and provide a guided tour so you and your loved one can explore our community.
