Moving your elderly loved one is more than just a physical process; you also need to consider the emotional aspects of the move and how you can make the caring transitions easier. In today’s post, Busy Buddies shares four ways you can make your elderly loved one’s new residence feel more like home.
1. Focus on the Positive Aspects of the Move
Your aging loved one may have a negative outlook about the move. Don’t blame them for this—moving to an independent or assisted living facility is a big change that can provoke complex emotions. Combat these negative feelings by focusing on the positive aspects of the move. Living in a senior community, for example, “liberates” your elderly parent from the responsibilities of homeownership, allowing them to live a life of true independence with assistance if they need it.
2. Decorate Just Like Home
While it’s important to declutter your home before moving, encourage your loved one to hold onto some sentimental items and decorations, as this can help the new place feel more like home right off the bat. We recommend holding onto photo albums, wall art and any other possessions that your loved one greatly values.
3. Encourage Your Loved One to Get Involved in the Community
Your loved one might be overwhelmed by the thought of joining a new community, but isolating themselves will only exacerbate the feelings of loneliness and abandonment. Encourage them to get involved in the community. Many facilities hold special events and even clubs that residents can participate in. Doing so will immediately make your loved one feel like they’re part of something, making the new place feel like a friendly community.
4. Hire a Senior Move Manager
Hiring a senior move manager like us can help make your elderly loved one’s transition much easier. We offer complete elderly moving services, which include helping your loved ones through both the physical and emotional process of moving. When you work with us, we’ll make sure your elderly parent feels right at home in their new senior living community.
Give us a call at (703) 828-1833 for more information on our products and services. We offer professional caring transitions throughout McLean, VA, and nearby areas.
