Regardless of age, moving to a new environment brings about a whirlwind of emotions, from excitement to adventure, and possibly some uneasiness. Some older adults feel the same as they begin their move to assisted living.
It’s our responsibility to support and guide our loved ones with empathy, patience, kindness, and effort as they settle into their new suite in assisted living.
- Discuss the move together
- Help with the move
- Offer emotional support
- Visit regularly and stay connected
How Long Can It Take to Adjust to Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a long-term care environment designed to support older adults who are mobile, self-sufficient, and relatively independent, but who benefit from assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs).
With ongoing personalized support through services, amenities, and care staff, residents can focus on social enrichment and wellness instead of worrying about tasks like housekeeping, medication management, or meal preparations.
Fostering a balance between independent living and full-time care makes assisted living an attractive option for potential residents and their families.
Although assisted living provides a safe, welcoming environment, moving into a new space still requires adjustment, especially for those who have lived independently for decades.
This adjustment process varies, but most people need 1–3 months to feel fully settled.
Supporting the Transition to Assisted Living
Regardless of where someone is moving, there’s always an adjustment period. Assisted living is no different.
Some residents may adapt to their new space quickly, especially if they’re naturally social and find new adventures thrilling. Others require more time, and this is perfectly normal.
Finding support through friends and family helps residents tremendously as they transition into assisted living.
Discuss the Move Together
Start by involving your loved one in the decision-making process. While it may feel easier to take control and handle everything yourself, transparency and collaboration can reduce feelings of resentment or loss of control and preserve your loved one’s independence.
- Research communities together: Spend time researching various assisted living communities. Prioritize those that meet your loved one’s needs, offer the right level of care, and align with their personality and interests.
- Go on tours together: Arrange visits to potential communities. Through these tours, your loved one has the opportunity to meet residents, explore amenities, and get a feel for the environment. Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and provide a sense of ownership over the decision.
Involving your loved one in this process creates a comfortable environment to address any fears or concerns they may have about the process.
Your loved one may be worried about losing independence, leaving their social circle, or adapting new routines. It’s our job to listen and validate their emotions instead of dismissing them.
Help with the Move
The physical logistics of any move (downsizing, organizing, and packing) can be chaotic.
Helping with details surrounding this transition will help your loved one feel less overwhelmed and stressed:
- Plan ahead: It’s never too early to start planning for the move. Coordinate everything from downsizing to paperwork and moving trucks. Your loved one will have fewer logistical tasks to worry about.
- Make downsizing a collaborative process: Prepare ahead of time by creating a list of what your loved one will need. Declutter together and encourage your loved one to keep sentimental and essential items for added comfort.
- Create a familiar environment: Help set up your loved one’s new living space with personal touches like photos, favorite furniture, and treasured keepsakes. Familiar items bring added comfort and help ease unfamiliarity.
Offer Emotional Support
Moving to a new space sparks a mix of emotions. It’s our job to acknowledge this whirlwind of emotions without judgment and without dismissing our loved one’s concerns.
Building an emotional connection throughout the process fosters trust and helps your loved one feel less alone.
- Validate their feelings: Statements like “I understand that this is hard for you” or “I’m here to listen” can go a long way in helping them feel understood, especially during moments of sadness or doubt.
- Remind them of the positives: Reframe their worry by reminding them of the benefits of this move, including safety, social opportunities, and access to care.
- Be patient: Emotional adaptation takes time. Reassure them that feeling unsure or homesick initially is normal and temporary.
Visit Regularly & Stay Connected
Staying connected and present throughout the transitional period can make the entire process less daunting for your loved one.
- Visit frequently: Plan visits to check in and reassure your loved one of your ongoing support. Find a balance between consistency and space. As your loved one settles in, avoid visiting too often and give them the chance to develop their own routine.
- Send care packages: Especially during the early days of adjustment, consider sending your loved one care packages with their favorite treats or even a housewarming gift to let them know you’re thinking of them.
- Join in activities: Participate in community events and activities! These shared experiences can help them integrate into the social environment more easily.
- Encourage friendships: Assisted living communities thrive in social connections and shared experiences. Encourage your loved one to join clubs, activities, and social events to form new connections and combat feelings of loneliness.
Whether you opt for weekly visits or video calls, regular communication shows continuous care and involvement.
Schedule a Visit
Helping a loved one transition to assisted living requires patience, empathy, and effort. It’s a milestone change, but with the right guidance and support, it can also be an exciting opportunity for growth and connection.
Involving your loved one during this moving process is the first step to supporting them during this period.Connect with our team at Bentley Assisted Living at Lynchburg to schedule a tour of our assisted living community.
