When an elderly loved one can no longer live safely at home, you may need to move them to an assisted living community. Such communities can provide a supportive, safe environment where older adults can receive all the care they need while continuing to live fulfilling, active lives. However, the initial move isn’t always easy, especially when your loved one is reluctant to leave the home they’re so comfortable in. Here are three tips for making the transition a little smoother.

How to Make Assisted Living Feel Like Home

1. Bring Personal Belongings 

Little things can make a big difference in making a new place feel more personal. For example, select certain mementos, such as photos and sentimental knick-knacks, that they can display. It may not be possible to take all of their belongings, as their new quarters may be smaller than their current home. However, you can offer to safeguard the items they can’t take with them to give them peace of mind that their valuables are in good hands.

2. Make Room for Activities 

Consider your loved one’s favorite hobbies and pastimes. Do they love to read, knit, or paint? Make sure they have plenty of space to participate in these activities in their living quarters. For example, you might place an easel and chair by the window for painting or put their sewing basket on a table next to the couch. Many assisted living communities have communal spaces and group activities, as well. Still, it is also good for individuals to have the freedom and ability to work on hobbies in their own time. 

3. Practice Patience 

Many people have to get rid of some belongings when moving houses. However, moving from one place to a comparably sized new home is quite a bit different than moving from a house to an assisted living community. Try to see things from your loved one’s perspective and respect that the process may be difficult and perhaps even painful. Encourage them to designate certain items as a top priority and donate or throw out some things they no longer use or need. Be gentle and patient if they are reluctant to let certain pieces go. Consider measuring the new space before you begin, so you have a clear idea of how much room there is to work with. It may be necessary, for instance, to replace a big sofa with a loveseat, or to replace a large kitchen table with a smaller one.

If your elderly loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s and you’re in search of an assisted living community in Montana, turn to Beehive Homes of Kalispell. This senior living facility is one of the area’s most respected retirement homes, providing round-the-clock care on beautiful grounds. Call (406) 871-8667 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule a walk-through and consultation. Visit the website to learn more about the home and how they can help your family.