Transitioning to a retirement community or assisted living facility can be difficult for seniors. Some may feel as though they’re giving up their independence or being forced into a living arrangement they believe is unnecessary. As a caregiver, the last thing you want to do is upset them – the move to senior care is to help them, not hurt them. These tips can help make the transition to senior care easier for you and your loved one.

Start with a Conversation

Hesitation may stem from the fear of the unknown. Having an open and honest conversation about the benefits, what to expect, and the steps to take can be helpful. Pick a quiet and comfortable setting where you won’t be interrupted. If your loved one has any concerns or anxiety, acknowledge their feelings. Ensure they understand that this decision benefits them and that you are open and available to answer any questions they may have.

Know that they may need time to process their thoughts and emotions. Plan to revisit the conversation later when they’ve had time to digest it.

Involve Them in the Process

A key part of easing the transition to senior care is involving them in the process. Your loved one should never feel as though they are being treated like a child or being told what to do or where to go. Engaging them in selecting a senior care residence puts the power back in their hands. Ask for their input with questions like:

• What’s most important to you in a new home?
• What activities would you like to participate in?
• What location would you like to be in?
• How important is it to be near family and friends?
• Would you prefer a large or smaller community?
• What kind of meals or dining options are important to you?
• Would you like to have access to a gym, walking paths, or other amenities?
• Would you like a community with organized social events?
• How do you feel about having on-site healthcare staff available?

Ensure they know their opinion is greatly valued.

Choose the Right Option

You must consider your loved one’s needs when looking for a senior care facility. Do they need independent senior living, assisted living, or memory care? Based on your loved one’s feedback to the questions above, present them with a few options and take them to visit any communities they’re interested in. Talk to staff and residents. Ask lots of questions! You can gain valuable insights about a senior living community from the people who live and work there.

Once you’ve visited a few, compile a list of each option’s pros and cons. Then, sit down with your loved one and discuss each option with them.

Start with Short Stays

If your loved one has trouble jumping into a full-fledged move, explore your options. Many senior living communities offer short visits or respite stays to help ease the adjustment. While there, your loved one can get a feel for the community and amenities – and see that it’s not so scary after all! Encourage them to participate in activities and mealtimes to meet potential new friends.

Help Them Move

Your loved one likely has many personal belongings to go through, especially if they’ve lived in their home for a long time. Transitioning to senior living often means downsizing. Help them declutter and prioritize what they want to take with them. This process can be overwhelming for them, so take it slow and be patient. Go through one room at a time.

When it’s time to move, clearly label boxes so there’s no confusion about where their items are. Get your loved ones together to help move items in and unpack. Bring familiar items like photos, blankets, or favorite furniture to make their new space feel like home.

Stay Involved

After your loved one has moved into their new home, visit them as much as possible, especially in the first few weeks. Call or video chat with them often. Ask them how the transition is going and if there’s anything you can do to make them happier or more comfortable. Encourage family and friends to call and visit, too!

Check in with their caregivers as well. Ask staff how your loved one is acclimating. If they’re having a tough time, ask staff to encourage them to participate in some activities. Continue to advocate for your loved one’s care and needs.

How Grand Oaks Can Help

Located on the campus of Sibley Memorial Hospital in the heart of downtown D.C., Grand Oaks offers residents fun daily activities and top-quality senior living and memory care. Our award-winning staff are devoted and caring, focusing on building relationships every day. The result is satisfied residents who are happy, healthy, and thriving. Learn how our team improves residents’ lives!