Moving to a retirement community can be a daunting challenge, especially if your parents are used to the lifestyle they’ve adopted at home. Whether it’s missing being around their loved ones constantly, or simply worrying about adapting into a new community, there are things that one should consider when moving a parent into a retirement community in Long Beach, MS. Thankfully, there are some preparations you can do to help ease the transition.
Bring Familiar Items from Home
It’s important that your loved one is able to still have possession of some personal items that bring meaning to them in the new community. This can be emotionally calming and reduce the initial anxieties of moving into an unfamiliar space. It could be a memento they’ve collected on a past trip, a family photo, or even Knick Knacks that they’ve grown particularly fond of. Make sure to pack some of these items during the move to the new community.
Ask The Community Team Questions
It’s always helpful to know more about the community your parent will be moving into, so that you know what to expect on moving day! Most retirement communities have a contact form, should you need to find out further information about the space.
Once you’ve selected a retirement community for your loved one, it’s important to clarify any doubts or questions you or your loved one may have regarding the place, as uncertainty can create anxiety.
If your parent is shy or soft spoken, try encouraging them to come out of their shell and reminding them that they are always welcome to ask staff members on hand if they are ever unsure about anything.
Let Them Be Independent
Out of care and love, it may be tempting to walk alongside your parent closely through this transitional period. However, it’s important that you give them the space to adapt on their own to the new environment.
Sometimes, families and friends who visit too often can actually slow the ability of the loved one to adapt into the community. So especially during the initial period, it may be helpful to step back a little for your loved on to explore their new home as well as forge new friendships with community members.
Thankfully, most retirement communities are not short of activities that can bond residents, ensuring that your loved one never feels lonely. Our Celebrations Activities & Events program similarly aims to create plenty of opportunities for residents to socialize.
Keep In Touch
On the other hand, it’s never good to be too distant from your parent even if he or she has settled into the new community. Make sure to keep in touch with your loved one and their progress. You can also do so by engaging in contact with the community team.
Some communities even allow for caregivers to take part in activities with their loved one when visiting, so make sure to get involved!
While retirement communities have dedicated teams on hand to help aid the transition, it’s always helpful for you, a familiar contact, to prepare your parent so that they have the best chances of adjusting well into the community!
