Family members often consider it an honor to care for their loved ones as they age. However, balancing providing this care and maintaining a healthy and happy life can also be challenging. The family may need to look into assisted living, and making that decision can be difficult. How can the family help a loved one transition to assisted living?
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The Importance of Assisted Living
Many people assume assisted living is about providing care. The goal is to provide an assisted living resident with a higher quality of life. The center should provide an environment where residents can thrive and remain independent. Staff members are there to provide support only when needed.
When Should a Person Move to Assisted Living?
Most seniors want to remain in their own homes as long as possible. However, when they have mobility issues or cannot carry out everyday tasks, they need extra help, which the assisted living center can provide. Memory loss is a concern for many seniors. They benefit from having people on hand to monitor their movements and ensure they remain safe.
Seniors who are isolated are more at risk of mental health issues. Moving into a community with their peers can ensure they get the social interaction they need. Caregivers also benefit from this transition, as the focus can return to spending quality time with their loved ones rather than attending to their needs. Staff members help with basic hygiene, medication management, and other tasks the caregiver completed.
Discussing the Need for Assisted Living
Families often find it hard to bring up the topic of assisted living. They don’t want their loved ones to become upset or feel like a burden. Finding the right time and place to have this conversation is essential. Everyone must be able to share their feelings about the possible transition without fear of judgment, and the person possibly making the move should have input into which community they prefer. Share as much information as possible because knowledge is power. Everyone will be more open to the idea when they have the facts.
Determine the Level of Care Needed
Knowing which community is suitable for the person isn’t easy. Before comparing communities, have them undergo an assessment to learn about their current medical conditions, what medications they take, and what treatments they need on an ongoing basis. They may also need a cognitive assessment to determine if they have issues that the community must address. The center may also want to do an Activities of Daily Living Assessment to learn how the resident handles bathing, dressing, and other tasks to know the level of care they will need.
Choosing a Community
When comparing communities, consider the location of each. Seniors may want to be close to family members or stay in their neighborhood. Respect their wishes as much as possible. Ask about the amenities and services offered and the qualifications of staff members. Visit several communities before deciding to ensure the community is suitable for the loved one.
Preparing for the Transition
The transition to assisted living involves more than just the physical move. It is also an emotional transition. Have open conversations about the senior’s feelings and reassure them that they won’t be forgotten. Let them choose treasured items from home and bring them to the community. Help them downsize and decide what to do with belongings they won’t take. Let their healthcare providers know about this transition and have them meet with the right professionals to get the legal and financial affairs in order.
Plan to spend the day of the move with the loved one in the community. Help them personalize their space and meet with staff members and residents to get to know those the loved ones will be living with and who will care for them. Visit regularly, particularly in the first weeks following the move, to help the loved one settle. While there, participate in activities with them. Doing so will help them make connections while allowing family members to see how they adjust. These steps will give everyone peace of mind and make the transition as smooth as possible.
