Moving is never easy, especially as people get older and are dealing with the loss of independence and health issues as well. If the time has come to help your loved one transition to assisted living, this guide will help you with the process.

Tips to Help a Loved One Move to Assisted Living

1. Keep Them Involved

Unless your loved one has a significant cognitive impairment, it’s important to keep them involved in the process. Talk to them about what they would like in a new community, what they are afraid of, and any resistance they have. Many people don’t want to leave their homes, but discussing their worries and helping them understand the benefits can bring them around to the idea of later life care.

2. Help Gather Information

Take time to research facilities in the area that seems best for them. If this requires a long-distance move to be closer to family, ask their doctor if this option is safe or possible. Keep a realistic picture of the loved one’s medical needs in mind as well as their requirements for personal care. Be prepared for conversations with family members and your loved one, including sharing information about costs, logistics, and the pros and cons of different facilities.

3. Focus on Benefits

While your loved one may be concerned about their loss of independence, help them focus on the benefits of assisted living. Remind them about the social opportunity of their new community, the on-site medical care, reduction of cleaning and household chores, and any other amenities the facility offers. Emphasize how safe they will feel and the level of care they will receive as they grow older.

4. Help Select Items to Bring from Home

Most assisted living facilities will allow residents to bring items from home. Help your loved one choose special keepsakes to bring, such as their favorite pictures, a cozy chair, or a collection of books. Go through their belongings with them to determine which items to donate or give to family members. As always, give your loved one plenty of choice.

5. Plan Plenty of Visits

Plan to have yourself and other friends and family visit the loved one often, especially at the beginning of their transition to assisted living. Many people feel that they are being abandoned when they have to leave their homes, and getting regular visits helps assure them that this isn’t the case. Seeing family and friends will help until they make friends in their new community. 

If you’re thinking about helping your loved one transition to an assisted living facility in Columbia, OH, consider Hillcrest Assisted Living. This small, privately owned senior living home is located in a beautiful and quiet country setting. They offer activities, fresh, nutritional cooking, and 24/7 medical staffing, all at an affordable rate. Call (573) 696-3201 to schedule a tour or visit the website to learn more about the facility and services.