When your loved one is having trouble handling daily responsibilities, such as cooking, bathing, and managing finances, an assisted living facility can provide them the care and amenities they need. As with any move, the transition may be difficult for them, but there are some steps you can take to make them more comfortable in the process. To help your parent or relative settle into their new home in no time, here are some tips.

How to Facilitate the Transition Into Assisted Living

1. Communicate

To ensure they feel like they’re part of the process, talk to your loved one about the benefits of assisted living, their options, and any decisions you make regarding their care. Since they’re the ones who’ll be most affected by the change, keeping them updated on the move will help them understand why it’s necessary and how it’ll help them.

2. Research

Every senior has different needs in terms of medical care and daily assistance. If they have a condition that affects memories, such as Alzheimer's or dementia, they may need close monitoring. If they don’t, they may prefer a casual community with only brief visits from caregivers. Write down a list of your loved one’s wants and needs, then research assisted living facilities that provide those services and amenities.

3. Visit

Once you have a community in mind, visit the facility and bring your relative with you. This gives both of you the chance to explore the grounds and form an opinion, and will also help your loved one grow familiar with the accommodations and other seniors.

4. Downsize

If your loved one is moving from a full-sized home to a smaller living space, they’ll have to downsize their belongings to fit in an apartment-style home. Well in advance of the move, find out how much space their accommodations provide to decide which furniture and belongings to take and what to sell, throw out, or donate. While retirement homes often come furnished, residents are encouraged to bring personal items and decorations to make the space feel more familiar.

If you’re looking for a safe and comfortable assisted living facility for your loved one, call Bethany St. Joseph Corporation in the area of La Crosse, WI. For over 40 years, their team has offered a wide range of elderly care options and senior living arrangements, including memory care, adult day care, and physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help them maintain wellness. View their assisted living facilities online, or call (608) 783-1516 to schedule a tour.