Transitioning to Assisted Living: Tips for a Smooth Move

Making the move to an assisted living community is a major life change, not just for the individual who is making the transition, but also for their loved ones and friends. Choosing to move often brings out deep emotions and requires a bit of careful planning and more than a few practical considerations.

While moving into an assisted living apartment might feel overwhelming at first, knowing how to approach the process thoroughly can take much of the stress out of the equation. 

Here at The Harrison of Wildwood, we know that your decisions matter, which is why we’ve put together our list of top tips to make the move to an assisted living or memory care community even easier.

Tip 1: Start the Conversation Early

Nobody likes having big decisions sprung on them, so the earlier you can approach the topic of assisted living with a loved one, the better. Come to the conversation with empathy and patience, and don’t be afraid to lead out with open-ended questions, such as:

  • What are your preferences when it comes to your living situation?
  • Do you have any concerns about living on your own? What about an assisted living community?
  • What would make this season of life much easier for you?

Make sure to highlight the positive aspects of an assisted living community, such as the number of great social opportunities, the access to instant care when needed, as well as the freedom that comes from having help with daily tasks and chores. 

While having the conversation with your loved one, let them express their thoughts and feelings without fear – as giving them a voice in the process will help them feel a sense of ownership in their decisions.

Tip 2: Choose The Right Community

Choosing the best assisted living community for your loved one is the most important part of this decision! Take a look at the different options in your region, and compare the various amenities and features each offers. 

Look for a space that aligns with the needs of your loved one – such as how visits work, what the floor plan of each room looks like, and what interactions between staff and other residents may involve. 

Make sure to schedule a tour so that you can see the assisted living community for yourself – because nothing beats a first-hand experience!

Tip 3: Downsize With Care

Moving to an assisted living community will likely involve a major shift in lifestyle, especially for those who have been living in their homes for many years. Approach downsizing with sensitivity, as this may be one of the more difficult parts of this process.

Start early and sort belongings and items into different categories: things to keep, items to donate, and stuff to throw away. Involve your loved one as much as they would like to be involved – and include planning how those items will come to the new apartment as well!

Tip 4: Plan Your New Living Space

Once you’ve chosen the assisted living community you’ll be moving to, make sure to get ahead of planning how your new space will be set up.

Most assisted living and memory care communities offer a variety of floor plans that are designed for comfort along with accessibility. 

You’ll want to plan out how you will incorporate personal belongings such as furniture, family photos, and other personal decor to help bring a sense of comfort and continuity from the previous home.

Tip 5: Stay Involved Through The Transition

For loved ones of those moving to assisted living communities, staying involved in the transition process is vital. Knowing how to manage the emotional impact of a move in one’s later years will make all the difference, particularly when turning a new “space” into a home.

Make sure to set expectations early when it comes to how often you’ll visit and how you will help them get involved in the community. Make connections between your loved one, the community staff, and nearby neighbors who might become dear friends in the days to come.

As a family member, take this time to connect with the caregivers yourself. This will help you feel more at ease as your loved one transitions to their new home and will give you the right contact team for any questions or updates.

Tip 6: Be Patient & Stay Positive

New moves are a big deal and the best thing you can do is stay patient and positive. There may be tough days at first, but with a positive mindset, you’ll quickly find that an assisted living community can be a great place to grow.

Remember that a transition to an assisted living community isn’t just a move, it’s an ongoing experience. Stay connected, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help from the staff and community. 

Most importantly, remember that these senior living communities are designed to help you maintain your dignity and independence, and what you invest in the opportunities around you will make the experience all the more rich!

Ready To Learn More? Visit The Harrison of Wildwood Today!

At The Harrison of Wildwood, we know that moving to an assisted living community is a big milestone, and we want to help you make the transition as smooth as possible. 

If you are looking for the best assisted living in Wildwood, Florida, schedule a tour today! Our staff and residents would love to welcome you to our community, and show you all there is to enjoy in some of the best years of life. Visit today!

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