Transitioning an elderly parent to an assisted living facility, no matter how it’s needed, is never an easy move for eldery parents or the adult children. Many do not want to leave the home they’ve known for years to move into unfamiliar surroundings, especially if they consider it to be a loss of independence. However, most find that by allowing others to take care of some of their daily tasks like cleaning, cooking, and doing laundry, they’ll have more time to enjoy themselves and the company of others living in their community. Below are some ways that you can help ease the transition of an elderly parent to an assisted living facility:
- Have a professional assessment. It’s very easy to let emotions take over when considering a transition from a home to an assisted living facility. Healthcare professionals, social workers, and elder law attorneys can help make honest assessments about the level of care your parent needs and whether it’s appropriate for them to stay in their own home or move to an assisted living.
- Involve the entire family. While you don’t want to make your parent feel as if they’re being ganged up on and forced to move out of their house, it’s important to reach a consensus with other decision makers in your family. It will be much easier to present a strong case when everyone is on the same page. And, of course, be considerate of your parent’s wishes.
- Downsize the home while keeping important items. It’s impossible to keep every possession when you’re moving your parent from an entire house to a room or small apartment. However, make sure to bring all the keepsakes that will make your parent feel at home, as well as any furnishings or furniture that makes sense to move with them.
- Visit often and stay involved. Once your parent has moved to the assisted living facility, it’s crucial to maintain contact by visiting often and helping them become adjusted to their new surroundings. You can plan to have frequent meals with them, either at the facility, your home, or a restaurant, if possible, as well as attend any events at the assisted living facility that welcome family members to join.
If you would like to discuss strategies for transitioning your parent from their home to an assisted living facility, or if you’d like to assess your elderly parent’s situation to determine if a move to an assisted living facility could benefit them, please set up an appointment with one of our elder law attorneys by calling (336) 378-1122.
