Transitioning from in-home living to an assisted living lifestyle can be a significant change that may seem scary. The process of finding a community, moving, and settling in can seem overwhelming.
Many seniors have fears associated with making the change. They may worry that they won’t be independent in their new home or that they’ll be lonely.
If you or a loved one is preparing to transition to an assisted living community, read on to learn more about what to expect and how to overcome some common fears.
Things to Remember Before Moving Into Assisted Living
Today’s assisted living communities are advanced and offer way more than senior communities of previous generations. Unfortunately, assisted living communities still carry a reputation that can seem off-putting to outsiders.
When you’re moving into assisted living, here are a few things to remember.
You’ll Maintain Your Independence
Assisted living does not mean that resident staff will manage your schedule and do everything for you. The assisted living lifestyle allows you as much independence as you’d like.
You’ll have the benefit of private living quarters where you can come and go as you please, cook your meals, and host visitors.
Assisted living can be much like living in a private residence, except you have all the benefits and conveniences of the community.
You Won’t Be Lonely
One of the greatest benefits of assisted living is the sense of community among residents.
Residents have endless opportunities to connect with fellow residents through planned activities and social time in the common areas. In addition, residents have plenty of space to host loved ones any time they want.
You Won’t Be Bored
A common fear among seniors transitioning to assisted living is the fear of being bored. Nothing could be further from the truth in today’s assisted living facilities. Today’s communities offer a full calendar of events to provide a comprehensive life enrichment experience.
From learning new skills to staying physically active, residents will never have to worry about being bored.
It’s More Affordable than You May Think
Considering the security and convenience that assisted living offers, the cost is comparable to living in a traditional home. Costs are distributed between maintenance, utilities, food, and other living expenses.
In addition, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), many older adults are eligible for some form of government assistance to help cover the costs of assisted living.
Tips to Make the Transition Easier
Transitioning to assisted living is a big change, but it is almost always for the better. By keeping an open mind and taking a few proactive steps, the transition may be easier than you think.
Be Willing to Embrace Change
If you don’t have an open mind about the transition, the change will undoubtedly be a hard one. On the other hand, if you keep an open mind to the possibilities of the next chapter, you will find yourself looking forward to the new experience.
Change can be difficult, but it can also be exciting. Embracing change is the best way to make the transition a smooth one.
Take the Time to Personalize Your New Space
Moving at any stage in life comes with an adjustment period. When you first arrive in your new environment, it is natural that it won’t feel like home right away. The best way to make your new space feel like home is to personalize it.
Bring your own furniture and decorate it the way you like. Filling your new space with your personal items will help the transition process, and you’ll settle in in no time.
Seek Support from Family and Friends
Big life changes are more manageable when you have support from friends and family. Don’t try to make the transition to assisted living alone.
Let your friends and family help you plan, move, and settle in. Early on, frequent visits from family members will help you feel more at home.
Caring Places Assisted Living Communities
At Caring Places Management assisted living communities, the staff’s goal is to support the residents in feeling independent, safe, and happy. The team truly cares about the residents, and they strive to provide a proper home for everyone.
The Caring Places approach is a holistic one that focuses on the resident’s physical, emotional, and mental health. Residents enjoy group activities, walking paths, well-landscaped properties, coordination for transportation, and more.
The vision of Caring Places Management communities is to promote independence, hope, and dignity in a home-like setting. Residents receive as much or as little care as they need and stay as active as possible to enjoy every day of their retirement.
Get in touch with us today to learn more or request a tour.
