Moving into an assisted living community is often a smart and safe choice for seniors. As part of 24-hour assisted care, residents receive prepared meals, laundry and housekeeping services, social activities, and help with daily tasks. At the same time, it’s important that your loved one feel comfortable in their new accommodations. Here’s how to make their new environment feel like home. 

How to Help Your Senior Loved One Feel Comfortable in Assisted Living

1. Bring Home Comforts 

Furnish your love one’s apartment with pieces that suit their lifestyle and make them feel comfortable. Move their favorite couch or armchair from their former home into the space—if size permits—and create separate areas for sleeping, lounging, and entertaining visitors. 

2. Put Items Into Storage 

Downsizing is often difficult for seniors who have many belongings and feel emotional attachments to them. Help them take inventory of their furniture, decor, heirlooms, and other items, and make separate lists of what they will keep and what will be sold or donated. Put the “keep” pile into storage, and let them know you’ll help them access anything they may need. 

3. Decorate With Meaningful Items 

Items on the shelves, walls, and refrigerator play a significant role in the home-like ambiance of an assisted living apartment. Decorate the space with family photos, artwork from grandchildren, collectible items, and mementos from years past. Meaningful decor will make them feel more connected to their new residence. 

4. Foster a Sense of Belonging

Loneliness is a common issue for seniors moving into a new space, so encourage activities that will make them feel included in daily life in the community. Look at calendars of events, club meetings, and community outings. Encourage your loved one to sign up for activities and events that match their personal interests. 

Abbington Assisted Living is proud to provide senior care throughout Columbus, Pickerington, Powell, Chillicothe, and Coshocton, OH. Abbington senior living communities are one-story buildings that are designed with comfort and security in mind, offering comprehensive nursing care services in a compassionate, comfortable, and cost-effective manner. Please visit our website or call us directly at (614) 451-4575 in Columbus, (614) 577-0822 in Pickerington, (614) 789-9868 in Powell, (740) 773-4630 in Chillicothe, or (740) 623-4600 in Coshocton.