Moving a parent to assisted living can be an emotional and challenging transition for everyone involved. It’s not just about packing up belongings and signing paperwork. It’s about orchestrating a thoughtful and heartfelt process that makes this new stage of life feel welcoming. Whether you’re wondering how to move a parent with dementia to assisted living or preparing for the practical side of the transition, the following tips can guide you through this process with care and consideration.
Plan for a realistic moving schedule
Unlike moving an entire family, moving into assisted living requires a slower pace. Your parent likely won’t be able to endure a long, exhausting moving day, and it’s important to respect their physical and emotional limits.
Spread the move across multiple days if possible, breaking it into manageable steps. This will help reduce the stress on both your parent and yourself. It’s also a good idea to involve them in the process as much as they feel comfortable, giving them a sense of control and reassurance. Small gestures, like letting them decide where to place their favorite items, can make a big difference in helping them feel at home.
When coordinating the move, it’s also important to consider their preferences. Do they want to be present on moving day to oversee things, or would they prefer to spend the day elsewhere?
For parents who may feel overwhelmed, consider organizing an outing for them to enjoy the day while you handle the preparations. Make sure they have a familiar and comfortable environment ready when they arrive, with personal touches like family photos or favorite décor to make the transition smoother.
Create a positive atmosphere
Transitioning from a loved family home to a new environment can bring a mix of emotions. It’s okay to acknowledge the sadness and nostalgia, but it’s equally essential to highlight the positives of this change. Focus on the fresh opportunities, the newfound support, and the community that assisted living offers.
While it may take time to adjust, embracing this new chapter can lead to unexpected joys and connections you never imagined. If possible, turn move-in day into a celebration. Assemble family and friends to share stories, enjoy snacks, and make the day feel special. Remember, this isn’t just a move; it’s the start of a new chapter.
Decide what to pack for assisted living
Before moving a parent to assisted living, work with them to determine what items they’ll need in their new space. Comfort is key. Focus on packing sentimental and practical items such as clothing, toiletries, family photos, and a few cherished decorations. Don’t forget to prepare an overnight bag with essentials like pajamas, medications, alarm clocks, and everyday items they’ll need immediately on arrival.
When space is limited, you may need to get creative or thoughtful about which items your parent can part with. Collaborate with them on these decisions so that they feel empowered and involved.
Help them settle into their new home
Making their new space feel like home is very important. Start by setting up the bed, bedside table, and favorite decorations before they arrive. This can create a sense of familiarity that will ease the transition. Arrange visits from family members or friends during the first weeks so that they feel connected and supported as they settle in.
For parents living with memory challenges, understanding how to move a parent with dementia to assisted living requires extra care. Choose items and routines that provide comfort and consistency. Work closely with the assisted living community’s memory care team to tailor an approach that suits their needs.
Know when is it time for assisted living
If you’ve been weighing the decision to transition your parent to assisted living, you might be asking yourself, “When is it time for assisted living?” A few signs include when your parent struggles with daily activities, their safety becomes a concern, or they seem isolated despite efforts to engage them.
When that time arrives, be open and compassionate. It can be a difficult conversation, but focusing on the benefits and support of assisted living can help put their mind at ease.
Choose The Arbors and The Ivy for your parent’s next step
At The Arbors and The Ivy Assisted Living Communities in MA and CT, we understand the challenges of moving a parent to assisted living. From our welcoming atmosphere to personalized care options, we are here to make sure your parent’s transition is smooth and positive. Our teams specialize in creating a home where each resident thrives, whether they are moving into assisted living or need specialized memory care.
Take the next step by using our online contact form to learn more about our communities. We’re here to help you and your parent every step of the way.