Transitioning a loved one to assisted living is never easy. Families would like to keep these individuals home with them but often understand they cannot provide the level of care needed. They have other duties and would end up juggling too many balls, dropping a few in the process. Assisted living ensures the loved one gets the care and attention they deserve.
Nobody wants this day to come, but it may. America’s population is aging, and countless individuals will need long-term care. What should you do if you need assisted living for a loved one? How can this transition be made easier?
Plan for the Transition
Families must carry out multiple steps before transitioning a loved one to assisted living. They will need to finalize the financial arrangements and set up the necessary medical services the senior needs. The seniors must downsize their homes and make arrangements for the items they plan to keep to be moved to the assisted living community. Furthermore, family members should sit down with the senior and set goals for the transition period. Small details like this will make the process easier for everyone.
Downsizing
As mentioned, seniors must downsize before moving to assisted living. Family members should help the senior decide what to keep, what to gift to loved ones, and what to sell or donate. This process can be challenging, but it will simplify the move to assisted living. The seniors will be surrounded by their favorite things, knowing that others are now enjoying the items they gifted, sold, or donated.
Hire Movers
Hire movers to do the heavy work. Moving is stressful. When combined with a transition to assisted living, seniors might feel overwhelmed by the process. Allowing professionals to take on some of the burden will help relieve their stress and make the transition easier. However, ensure they are insured to protect the senior in case something is lost or broken.
Work With the Assisted Living Community
Staff members at the assisted living community can be of great help with this process. They can share information about the move-in procedures, layout, and measurements of the senior’s new living space, and other details. Many communities offer support services to help new residents settle into their new homes and meet others in the community.
Organize Paperwork
Ensure the senior or a trusted representative has access to all important documents. Medical records, powers of attorney, and advanced healthcare directives must be easily accessible when needed. Financial paperwork must be gathered and organized to ensure the right parties know where to find it if the senior’s health declines.
Handle Moving Tasks
Alert the postal service and other organizations of the change of address. Cancel utilities and services that will no longer be needed once this transition is complete. Subscriptions and scheduled deliveries should also be updated.
Seek Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed counselor if one or more family members are struggling with this transition. Trained professionals can help them navigate the complex emotions that come with this move. They provide guidance and help these individuals develop coping strategies to deal with the transition.
Settling into a new home takes time. Getting engaged in the community will make the transition easier. Staff members are there to help ease the process, so reach out to them when needed. With the right support and proper planning, any person can make this transition and experience few challenges.
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