When you have to make the decision to take an elderly family member to an assisted living facility, you might have concerns about whether the person will adjust well or if it will take some time. With most people, it does take a while to adjust to being in new surroundings and around new people. They are no longer in a home that they have likely been in for several years. There are a few things that you can do to ease the transition to an assisted living facility.
Continuing Hobbies
Whether your family member already has a hobby or something that is enjoyed at home or not, consider setting something up at the facility. Many locations have a craft time when residents can paint, draw or make other items. Some people enjoy a cup of coffee and a newspaper in the morning. Try to keep the daily routine the same as possible so that your loved one feels at home.
Communication
Give your family member a phone, paper and envelopes. You want your loved one to have a way to call you and call other friends and family so that there is someone to talk to while away from home. Make sure the person knows how to use the phone. Program a few important numbers to make it easier to dial close friends and family so that your loved one doesn't have to remember numbers.
Visiting Counts
Take the time to visit your loved one in the assisted living facility. Although there will be other people who the person can talk to, there's nothing like the support of family to help with the transition. This is important to remember as you don't want the person to feel abandoned and left in a place to live a life alone. Another idea is to send flowers or to send special deliveries, such as candy or cookies, so that the person knows that there is someone who cares. Enjoy a meal with your family member, or take part in a class or an activity in the afternoon to show that you are in support of the person being in the facility.
