Moving to a new home in our 20s or 30s may not seem a big deal. A new job or relationship may have prompted the move, making the changes appear exciting and adventurous. Moving to a new home in senior placement services can be more difficult for older adults who have lived in the same house for decades, especially those experiencing memory issues associated with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. However, it is possible to make a positive transition with the proper support.
Logically, seniors transitioning to an independent living community will be able to participate more fully in the various stages of the transition than those switching to senior living. However, the suggestions below can be helpful in almost any change.
Make your new place feel like home
The extent to which you can decorate your new home will depend on whether it is in an independent living, assisted living, or memory care community.
Even if your options are limited, it is critical that your loved one feels at ease in their new surroundings. Bring some furnishings from their previous homes, such as a favorite bedding, artwork, or a favorite lamp, to make their new house feel more familiar. Display framed photos and treasured keepsakes to provide comfort.
Try to have the new space set up before moving day. Having family and friends assist you can make the process more enjoyable. Plan for a family member or friend to stay and share a meal with your loved one on the day of the move. This can go a long way toward making their first impressions of the new community positive.
Plan for frequent visits from friends and family
One of the main concerns many older people have about moving into senior placement services is that they will lose contact with the people they care about the most.
Almost all communities encourage residents’ friends and family to visit. Many communities even have a private dining room in their dining area that families can use for special occasions such as birthdays. Residents of independent living and assisted living communities are always welcome to visit friends and family outside the community. Residents in memory care are also eligible as long as someone is responsible for their care while away.
If your loved one is concerned about giving up current relationships and activities, reassure them that this will not happen. Indeed, the staff in the new community may encourage them to keep as much of their routine as possible — especially at first.
Your loved one’s social circle may begin to expand gradually. The opportunity to develop new interests and friendships is compelling for many older adults to relocate to senior placement services.
Use the services and amenities available
Whether in independent living, assisted living, or memory care, senior living amenities and activities are essential to the engaging lifestyle that helps older adults thrive. In our communities, salons and gourmet-inspired cuisine prepared by chefs are available to make life easier.
It may be beneficial for your loved one to maintain as much of their usual routine as possible. Having some sense of continuity can be reassuring, especially for those who have dementia.
If your family member is in an independent or assisted living setting, encourage them to investigate the senior living amenities of their new home. There will almost certainly be a social calendar full of classes, group outings, entertainment events, and year-round indoor activities for seniors to keep life exciting and enjoyable.
If your loved one is in memory care, the staff will introduce new activities based on their current condition and needs. Many of these activities are specifically designed to stimulate the brain and encourage engagement and participation. Many memory care communities provide safe, secure areas for residents to go outside and enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
Recognize that it will take time to adjust
Adjusting to new surroundings, people, and routines can be difficult at any age. As most of us can attest, it becomes more difficult as we age. It can be even more difficult for those who have dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
It may take your loved one several weeks to become acquainted with the neighborhood. They may need more time to be ready to engage in new activities or form new friendships right away. Even after several months, they might become disoriented.
All of this is entirely normal. It’s a significant shift. Try to be patient and know that your loved one will adjust to their new surroundings over time. If everything goes well, they may be much happier, bringing us to our final and most important recommendation.
Take your time in locating the ideal community
This is the foundation for everything else we’ve proposed.
If your loved one moves to a community that isn’t a good fit, adjusting to their new surroundings will be much more difficult. They may not even attempt to participate in activities or socialize with their neighbors.
How do you find the perfect match?
Visit several communities to compare them if time allows. If you like what you see, return frequently.
Many senior living communities host events for prospective residents and their families. These events usually only take an hour or two of your time. Choose a few from various communities and go. Spend time with the staff and speak with a few residents.
