As our parents age, we all want to ensure they receive the care and support they need. For many seniors, aging in place is the ideal situation, but it may not always be the most viable option, especially if they are in need of support for memory or congnitive challenges.
In these cases, families may need to consider moving their loved one to an assisted living facility with memory care.
However, such a move can be challenging and stressful for both seniors and their families.
Moving After Retirement: The Stressful Reality
The idea of moving to an unfamiliar place can be daunting for most people, but it’s especially true for seniors.
When a senior realizes that they must leave their home and familiar surroundings behind, the transition can be challenging.
This is why the medical world has coined the term relocation stress syndrome (RSS) to describe the distinct set of experiences that seniors go through. Symptoms of RSS may include anxiety, disorientation, and loneliness.
Mercy House can have these difficult conversations with you to help you make the best of what can be a difficult time.
Tips for Making the Transition Painless
If you’re considering moving your loved one to an assisted living facility, here are some tips to help make the transition as painless as possible:
Don’t Rush the Process: Try not to rush the move unless it’s an emergency. Allow your family member time to come to terms with the idea and make decisions about downsizing. Rushing the process can add unnecessary stress to the situation.
Get Involved: Making the transition to a new place where you know little to no one is stressful. We highly encourage families to get involved in the Mercy House community as soon as possible. Attend social events, meet other families, and participate in activities.
Visit & Contact: The fear of being forgotten by loved ones is common among seniors experiencing transition. Make sure to visit your loved one and relieve that stress they may have when possible. Our friendly staff can help you stay in contact in a way that is optimal for the happiness and comfort of those with conditions related to advanced age.
Selecting the Right Assisted Living Facility
When it comes to selecting an assisted living facility, there are essential factors to consider. You want to find a facility that provides quality care, is secure, and has a friendly and compassionate staff.
At Mercy House, we understand the needs of seniors, and we offer memory care services to help our residents feel at home. Our facilities are designed to provide a safe and secure environment while offering the support seniors need to maintain their independence.
Moving a loved one to an assisted living facility can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. By taking the right steps, you can make the transition as painless as possible.
Remember to choose an assisted living facility that provides quality care, has a friendly and compassionate staff, and is designed to help seniors feel at home. When you do the process right, you will both sleep better at night.
