Choosing to bring a loved one to an assisted living facility is not often an easy choice, mainly because of emotional considerations. However, the benefits of choosing this service can never be overlooked. Older adults and their families have to make the necessary adjustments and decisions that will ensure everyone is content.
Remember that it is not just about the move but also about maintaining the family connection and ensuring the seniors enjoy their stay in their new community. So what role does the family play in making this important decision for their loved one? This article will discuss the role of the family members when making assisted living decisions.
Deal With Fear
Some seniors fear starting a new life with new people after leaving their current home. They want their family to address their concerns when looking for assisted living services. Some worry about leaving their loved ones behind, while others are not sure if they will adjust to the new environment. Therefore, it is important to reassure the seniors that their family members will be fine and will stay in touch.
Any concerns they have about the facility should also be discussed and addressed so they can navigate the transition with ease. Family members should also show empathy and offer reassurance and encouragement, particularly when they notice their loved one looks isolated or anxious. Offering this emotional support makes the process less stressful for everyone.
Focus on the Senior’s Needs
Before picking an assisted living facility for a loved one, it is important to understand their needs in detail. This will make the decision-making process less stressful. Start by assessing their health and care requirements.
Does the senior have good memory and cognitive abilities? Can they move around with ease? Their general health state should be considered to ensure the facility they move into suits their situation.
The retirement living facility staff requests these details to determine how they will offer customized services. So, the more the family understands the senior’s needs, desires, and preferences, the better for everybody.
Personal needs and preferences can determine the ideal environment, fun activities, food, and facility type. Understanding senior’s needs also promotes their overall well-being, so families should provide accurate information and choose a facility that can accommodate those needs.
Establish Trust in the Assisted Living Facility
The family needs to help their loved one build trust in the facility they choose. Moving to a new living space requires some level of confidence to ensure a smooth transition. Families should start by visiting the facility with the older adult for a detailed tour to assess how they react to the new environment. It is also important to observe other residents to determine if they seem happy and content.
Engaging with the staff can also help the seniors feel at ease. Allow them to interact with caregivers and note how everything unfolds. This will help them feel more assured about making the facility their new home.
Provide Assistive Devices
Different seniors will need different assistive devices to make their stay more comfortable. So whether they need a wheelchair, glasses, phones, or hearing aids, the family should get these assistive devices in advance. It would be unfortunate to realize they don’t have everything they need later on.
Once a family understands the role they play in helping their loved one settle in an assisted living home, the process becomes easy. Family members should always listen to the opinions of their aging parents and provide solutions to all their concerns. It is also crucial to choose a reputable assisted living facility for quality services.
