Elderly adults who have been living on their own for the majority of their life may be hesitant to make moves to a place where their surroundings are unfamiliar. Moving to an assisted living community is a life-altering change. However, it can be a positive one once they see how they can still live as if they were on their own –but now with a little more help. Here are some tips to help your senior loved one to adjust and enjoy assisted living life!

Keep Open Communication

Open dialogue with your elderly parent can go a long way. The best time to talk about changing your loved one’s living arrangements should begin when show signs of struggling with chores and other tasks.  Let them know that an assisted living community can sill provide them with independence, but they will have help whenever they need it. 

Find the Right Assisted Living Community for Them

You’ll want to make sure that the assisted living community that you choose fits your elderly loved one’s lifestyle. For example, your elderly parent may be very active socially and likes to attend outings and participate in games and events. When interviewing assisted living community staff, ask questions to determine if they can accommodate your elderly loved one’s needs. 

Encourage Independence

Many elderly adults who move to a new community may feel lonely and have a difficult time adjusting. However, it’s critical to continue the same visiting routine as you did before. The less you visit, the more they may be susceptible to depression and loneliness. Encourage them to make new friends, be social, and participate in activities that are available to them. Seniors who are independent are more social and happier overall. 

Adjusting to an assisted living community can be stressful for an elderly adult, but with the above tips and the help of a caring staff, they will be well-adjusted in no time! For more information on how The Arbors Assisted Living can help your elderly loved one, contact us to schedule a tour at one of our five convenient locations today!