How to Help Your Parent Settle In and Feel at Home in Assisted Living

When your parent moves into an assisted living facility, it can be a difficult and stressful time, even if it is the best decision for their health and well-being. Perhaps they were the ones that made the decision, felt confident in it, and were ready for the move. With all that said it doesn’t erase the fact that settling in and feeling comfortable in their new surroundings is a process and there can be pitfalls along the way.

Here’s a look at some of the best ways you can help your parent settle in and feel at home in their new assisted living space.

Show Empathy and Compassion Towards Your Parent

Before you take any steps it’s important to ensure you go in with the right attitude. Showing empathy and compassion for what they may be feeling emotionally is important. There are no right or wrong feelings in this situation, anything they are going through is valid.

Let them know you’re there for them, you will offer support and you will listen to them. There’s a good chance there is some sadness, loneliness, fear, and stress wrapped into what they are going through.

Schedule a Tour Before the Move-In Date

Often fear is caused by the unknown, so a great way to solve that problem is to schedule a tour of the facility before your parent moves in. They can see what their room will look like, the configuration and size, meet some of the residents, get a better feel for the layout of the facility, learn about recreational programs, check out the dining room and the menu, and so forth.

Because they have taken the time to tour the assisted living facility, when their move-in date arrives they won’t have that same level of fear and uncertainty.

Help Them Personalize Their Room/Unit

Another tip is to help your parent set up their room or unit so it feels personal. The more special touches you add, the less like a sterile space it will feel. That could mean simple things like family photos, artwork, linens they love, throw pillows and blankets, and other such items.

Be sure to speak to the facility in advance about what comes in the room and what your parent is allowed to bring with them.

Encourage Your Parent to Take Part in the Activities Offered

One fabulous thing about assisted living facilities is the many on-site activities, seminars, and classes. Take a look at what this facility, Brandywine Litchfield CT Assisted Living, offers its residents in terms of activities and programming. Your parent will have access to entertainment whenever they want, and you must encourage them to do so.

It’s a great way for them to feel at home, fit in with their new community and socialize with other seniors.

You Can Help to Make the Process Much Smoother

While it may seem like much of the experience will be out of your hands, in reality, there is plenty you can do to help your parent settle in and feel at home in their new assisted living unit.

Jason

Delving deep beneath the surface, Jason unveils the mysteries of the aquatic world. At fishyfacts4u.com, he casts light on the obscure, sharing revelations and wonders from the watery depths.

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