Home.
Four simple letters encompass a multitude of emotions.
When the time comes for your loved one to say goodbye to one home and hello to another, there are things you can do to make the transition easier. After you’ve found the right assisted living community, keep these six ideas in mind:
1. Hang Family Pictures
This is simple and effective. Filling your loved one’s new apartment with familiar faces instantly adds that sense of home. A new photo album or scrapbook makes an excellent housewarming gift.
2. Remember The Favorites
Downsizing is essential. It’s not easy and tough choices must be made. However, make sure you bring a few favorites. These could be a comfy chair, a well-loved blanket, or an invaluable collection of books.
3. Personalize The Apartment
Opportunities vary from community to community, but take advantage of different ways to decorate. This could be something big like painting walls or something small like displaying favorite knick-knacks. The more the apartment looks like home, the more it will feel like home.
4. Include Other Senses
Home isn’t just about what you can see. It’s about all our senses, including sounds and smells. If your loved one is particularly fond of specific music or scents, do what you can. New speakers, a small bouquet, or scented candles can go a long way.
5. Help With Technology
If your loved one isn’t the most tech-savvy person, a quick tutorial on tools like Zoom or Facetime can help ease any feelings of loneliness. This is a simple way to empower him or her to maintain important relationships. Frequent calls can be especially helpful during the first few months.
6. Build A Community
Finally, remember that home isn’t limited to what’s inside the walls. It’s also about who we spend time with. All assisted living communities offer different types of programming that help residents stay engaged. Options could range from book clubs to shopping trips. Encourage your loved one to get plugged in early and often.
If you have questions about assisted living or if you want to tour any of our nine Indiana locations, you can contact Silver Birch. We’re here to help.