We go through many changes in life, and transitioning to a senior living community is one that a lot of older adults will make at some point. Although any transition can be challenging, with careful forethought and planning it can be an exciting new phase of your life.
Here are some tips to make the transition easier:
Visit Multiple Senior Living Communities
Many questions about the transition can be answered if you visit potential communities early in the planning process.
Tour as many communities as possible and have a list of relevant questions with you. Here are some suggestions:
- What senior living lifestyles do you offer?
- What do you do to keep residents safe?
- What are the food options like?
- What training and qualifications do staff have?
- What does your activity calendar look like?
- How much will it cost?
- How do you make the transition easier?
Don’t be afraid to ask all the tough questions you might have.
When touring the community, remember to take photos so you can review them later and share them with your family as you consider your options.
Consider taking part in a meal at the community as well. You will learn a lot and have an opportunity to know what their food tastes like and how the staff treats the residents.
Downsize Ahead of Time
To make the transition easier, start downsizing early. While most senior living communities have spacious rooms, they don’t offer the same storage options as a typical house with multiple closets. Identify the must-have pieces of furniture and belongings. When the time is right to move, you won’t have a problem deciding what to carry and leave behind.
Notify Important Parties
Notify relevant parties, including utility companies, government agencies, healthcare providers, and post offices of your move.
Ensure your mail is forwarded, and your key utilities are canceled or transferred as needed.
Hire Senior-Friendly Movers
There are experts trained to work with older adults who are making the move to senior living. The good thing about working with such professionals is that they can guide you from start to finish with all aspects of the transition.
Some can even understand the space you are moving to and suggest arrangements or capacity limits for keeping the pieces of furniture you need while maintaining a walkable space in the new residence.
Right After Moving
Once you have moved in, it is important to familiarize yourself with the new surroundings and make it feel like home.
Start by getting acquainted with the facilities and amenities available to you. Take a stroll around the grounds, visit the critical common areas, and introduce yourself to the staff and fellow residents.
Personalize your living space with decorations and belongings that bring you comfort. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance if needed. The staff members are there to support you during this transition.
Keep in mind that it takes time to adjust. Be patient with yourself as you settle into this new chapter of your life.