3 Best Practices and Tips for a Move to Assisted Senior Living

Moving is a significant life change, and moving into an assisted senior living community can be an even more emotional change. In addition to the physical logistics and stressors that come with a move, emotional aspects may surface as the realization sets in about leaving a long-term home.

At Lakeshore Senior Living, we understand that older adults and their families have their own journey when it comes to moving to an assisted senior living community, but our team is here to help you along the way.

As an assisted living community in Guntersville, Alabama, we want to make sure your loved one’s move goes as smoothly as possible. To do this, we are sharing three of the best practices and tips for moving into a community.

1. Select the Right Community

First and foremost, it is crucial that you find the right community for your parent or family member. This may seem like an obvious step, but some may believe that all senior living communities are the same, which is not true.

Today’s senior living communities offer a wide variety of services and amenities that cater to different lifestyles and care needs, making it important for you to be particular when you select a community for yourself or someone you love.

You want to find an assisted senior living community that provides the level of personalized care and support that your family member needs. Beyond care, you want to look for a community that offers engaging activities and amenities that align with their interests and desired lifestyle.

2. Sort and Pack Your Loved One’s Belongings

Once you have found the perfect community for your loved one, the next step is to start the actual moving process by going through their belongings. The size of your parent or family member’s current home will determine how much they will have to downsize before moving into their new assisted senior living community.

To be mindful of space in their new home, focus on only packing items that are a necessity or hold a substantial sentimental value. It is helpful to work with the assisted living community and discuss items they recommend bringing. Ask questions like if the apartment comes furnished, if your family member is allowed to hang pictures, etc.

A good way to approach the sorting and packing process is by going room by room in their current home, eliminating any rooms they will not have in their new assisted senior living space.

Going through a family member’s home can be time-consuming and emotional for you and your loved one. Remember to be patient and give yourself plenty of time before moving day to avoid unnecessary stress.

3. Get Involved in the Community

One of the best ways to get familiar with a new environment is to jump in and participate. As moving day approaches, visit the assisted senior living community and encourage your parent or family member to engage with current residents and team members.

Participate in community activities, join residents for a meal, or stroll through the community. By doing so, your loved one will feel more familiar with their new home before they move in, allowing them to be more comfortable on moving day.

Even after the move, continue encouraging your loved one to connect with others and engage in community activities and events. This will only accelerate how quickly their new community feels like home.

Moving into an assisted senior living community is a big transition, but following these tips can help ease the process. Our team at Lakeshore Senior Living is here to help guide you and your family through your senior living journey.

Our community offers assisted living services in Guntersville, Alabama, for older adults who need added support to maintain their safety and independence. Lakeshore residents benefit from supportive assistance, community activities, events, and amenities with a strong emphasis on the six dimensions of wellness.

Some of the additional services and amenities we offer include:

• 24/7 support and assistance
• Medication management
• Restaurant-style dining
• Fitness and exercise rooms
• And so much more!

To learn more about our charming assisted living community in Guntersville, Alabama, visit our website or contact our team today.