Senior Living Specialists has helped thousands of families find the right care for an aging loved one. One of the common questions we receive is around the move in process to an assisted living community. Moving into an assisted living facility can be a big transition for an aging loved one, but with the right support and preparation, it can also be a positive and fulfilling experience.
Before moving in, your loved one will undergo an assessment to determine their care needs and to ensure the assisted living facility is a good fit for their lifestyle and needs. This can involve a review of their medical history and an assessment of their physical and cognitive abilities. Senior Living Specialists will work with you and your loved one to help assess their care needs to pair up with the correct assisted living facility.
You and your loved one will have the opportunity to take a tour of the assisted living facility, see the facilities, common areas, and available amenities. This can help to familiarize your loved one with their new home and ease any anxiety they may have about the move.
Finally, move in day will arrive which can be a challenging day for those with loved ones resistant to moving into an assisted living facility. On move-in day, your loved one will bring their personal belongings and settle into their new apartment or room. Staff will be available to help with unpacking and getting settled in, and to answer any questions you may have.
Over time, your loved one will have the opportunity to get to know other residents, staff, and volunteers in the assisted living community. They may join in on social activities, such as games, exercise classes, outings, and cultural events, which can provide opportunities for socialization and engagement. Family members are encouraged to visit their loved one and to get involved in community activities. This helps to maintain a connection with their loved one and to feel a part of their new community.
As a caregiver, Senior Living Specialists encourages you to also familiarize yourself with the staff that regularly engages with your loved one. They can provide insights into any changes in mood, mental state, or physical state that are vital to monitoring their care needs.
Depending on their care needs, your loved one may receive personal care services, such as assistance with bathing, dressing, and medication management. This can help to provide peace of mind for you and your loved one, knowing that they are receiving the care they need in a supportive and safe environment. Most assisted living facilities have staff available 24/7 and offer health care services on-site, such as medical check-ups, nursing care, and physical therapy. This ensures that your loved one has access to health care services when they need it.
Moving into an assisted living facility can be a positive experience for an aging loved one, with supportive staff, a variety of activities, and access to health care services. Senior Living Specialists also knows that it can be a very stressful and emotional time too. It is important to remember that this move will provide your loved one a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment that allows them to maintain their independence and continue to enjoy life to the fullest.