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When an elderly loved one can no longer manage living on their own without personal or medical assistance, it may be time to discuss the option of transitioning into assisted living. While it’s natural to be resistant to a lifestyle change, most seniors ultimately come to love their assisted living lifestyle and wish that they had made the change sooner. If your family member could benefit from this living arrangement, it’s important to help them transition into their new home in the following ways.   

Strategies for Easing the Transition Into Assisted Living

1. Arrange Tours & Visits

Give your family member an active role in the process as you seek out assisted living options – its going to be their home after all.  Take them with you when you go on tours and visits before the official move date. Be sure to discuss all of the amenities and services they will enjoy. 

2. Take the Stress Out of Moving

One way to minimize uncertainties or anxiety before the move is to oversee the logistics on your loved one’s behalf. Whether this means hiring movers or recruiting friends and family to help, you can give your family member peace of mind by ensuring them that the move itself is being handled.

3. Bring Personal Items

Help your loved one personalize their new living space with personal items and decor. Framed family photographs, favorite quilts, and beloved memorabilia should be brought along and displayed. Help your loved one plan what furniture to bring so that their new home is truly their own. Make sure to discuss furniture options with the provider in advance of the move – some providers may offer furnished units.

4. Encourage Them to Try Activities

assisted livingAssisted living communities offer a variety of social and recreational activities. This allows residents to continue enjoying their favorite hobbies and socialize with others. Encourage your loved one to explore classes or events and to share their ideas with staff. They might even pick up a new pastime in their new home.  

5. Visit Without Thwarting Independence

Your family member will likely be delighted when you’re able to visit. On your visit allow them to exercise whatever independence they can while you’re there. Of course, you can offer help if your loved one actually needs it. Yet, doing small tasks on their own allows seniors to maintain a healthy sense of self-sufficiency and autonomy.

 

If you’re looking for an assisted living facility for your elderly family member in Central Ohio, area, visit Abbington Assisted Living. This privately and locally owned community maintains a family-like atmosphere and provides everything needed to make residents feel at home while receiving care. To set up a tour, call (740) 773-4630. Or, learn about Abbington’s additional locations, including Columbus, Pickerington, Powell, and Coshocton, Ohio, online.  

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