Making the transition to an assisted living facility is not always easy, especially since seniors may feel like they are losing their independence. Being prepared for the move will make the transition easier and less emotional.

Choose The Right Facility

When there are many options available for an assisted living facility, try to choose the one that most closely resembles your previous home life. For example, some assisted living facilities are more apartment-like as opposed to a dormitory environment. The amenities available can also make the transition easier. For seniors who only need a little help, it will be better for them to have more freedom and activities available. A facility with access to reliable transportation will further encourage their independence. Unless you have limitations that make it unsafe to cook, you will also want an assisted living facility that has few exclusions on appliances so you can continue to fix your own meals.

Be Mindful About Downsizing

Most people who transition to an assisted living facility will need assisted living movers to help them downsize. Going from a multi-bedroom home to a small apartment will mean all your items cannot go with you. Be as strategic as possible about what items you throw away and which will go to your new residence. Whenever possible, try to preserve items by keeping them in storage or allowing a trusted friend to keep them for you. Eliminating decades of items, especially those with sentimental value, can precipitate depression and make living in a new residence a negative experience. Another consideration when downsizing is trying to make the new residence look similar to the previous residence. You may want your bedroom to look the same so there is familiarity. This is especially important if a loved one is suffering from dementia.

Address Health Concerns

There can be health concerns that need to be addressed as part of your planning. Some seniors have medical needs that might require continuous electricity, such as oxygen. You will likely need to plan for medical transportation for a safe journey to your new residence. Another consideration will be lengthy journeys to a new residence. It is important to have a medical evaluation for any risk factors that make lengthy travel unsafe. For example, seniors at risk for blood clots may face problems with air travel or lengthy car rides. In these instances, your doctor might advice you to make frequent stops and walk around, or plan for medical transport so you can be monitored throughout the journey.

Moving from a private residence to an assisted living facility can be sad for some people. Making the transition as smooth as possible will reduce negative feelings and help seniors adjust to their new living arrangement.