Deciding to transition a parent into an assisted living or independent living retirement community is a big step. It is important to understand you are not the first person to make this decision, and you do not have to go through this alone. The process might be a bit nerve-wracking at first, but following a few easy steps can help with the proper assistance and questions. It is possible to get through the process smoothly. Heart 2 Heart 4 Seniors understands your stress and are here to help you and your parents through this!
Do be proactive gathering information for the transition. Focus on gathering medical paper work, power of attorney paperwork (we are able to assist you with this), medications taken by your senior parent or spouse and creating a schedule that works for everyone. Don’t be afraid to ask us any question. We are aware that this often is an emotional time for family members involved. Because of our knowledge of the senior communities and our relationship with them, we are typically able to narrow the search down to 2 or 3 for you. If you do this on your own, there are literally hundreds of senior retirement homes/communities you could call in the Denver area, before you find the right fit, which is so overwhelming just to find the one that can meet your parent’s needs.
For you and your parent, this might feel as a final chapter of life is closing. It may possibly be a whole new chapter being written with great things to come!
Once you’ve decided to try to find the right fit for your parent’s new home, please call Heart 2 Heart 4 Seniors to help select a senior living location. We will meet with you and get to know your situation and what type of community will best meet your parent’s needs. It is then good to visit these communities with your parent. If possible, we like to schedule your tour with lunch at the community to familiarize yourself along with your parent the routine of the community, whether it be assisted living or independent retirement living. Visiting the location also will give your parent the perfect opportunity to chat with other residents.
After we help you make a decision on your parent’s new home, we suggest you take familiar items from your parent’s home to decorate their room. It is always nice to have familiar items in the room. If possible, try to set up the room to resemble the person’s room at home. Most elderly individuals feel more at ease with their own personal items.
Once they have moved in, it’s okay to give your parent some space. Your parent will need time to adjust being away from home, and their old environment. It is alright not to visit as much as you would like in the beginning. You want to give your loved one time to get to know the senior community’s routine, and make friends with the other residents. However, you can always call and even call the resident’s staff to find out how your parent is adjusting. Let the staff know that you are trying to give your parent’s some time to adjust and that you are not ignoring or abandoning them.
If you find this process is difficult and overwhelming, and you need help gathering information, there are professional advisors who can help guide you through the process. To find out more about our Senior Transition Services, please contact us.