It is never easy admitting that the time has come for mom and dad to be in an assisted living senior residence. They have been self-sufficient for so many years that coming to the realization there are just some things they are unable to do anymore is difficult for everyone involved. Even your parents, as reluctant as they are to move out of the family home, have finally realized that it is the best and safest option for everyone involved. Now that the decision has been made, it’s time to choose the best senior residence you can find. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Keep Mom and Dad Involved
Although mom and dad have said they are ready to make the change, there will always be a little bit of reluctance in the background. Therefore, it really is better to keep them as involved as possible in the decision-making process. You might want to view various residences first without them there, but after you’ve narrowed your choices down, it’s time to bring them along for your second visit. They must be comfortable with their surroundings, and you will know right away if anything is off-putting for them. You know, yourself, that there is a feeling you get when going somewhere new and if you are uncomfortable, it’s probably best to go with your gut feelings. This is true for mom and dad as well.
Let Them Help Choose the Size and Layout of the Apartment
Once your parents feel comfortable with the staff that greet them on their first visit, it’s time to look at various size apartments and the floor plans available and ready to be occupied. Assisted living apartments such as those at the Gatesworth are all spacious but beyond that, there is a choice of views from windows your parents can decide upon. If they are happy with their surroundings, the transition will be much easier for them. They will also want to envision where the mementos they choose to bring will be situated and they will want to know if there is going to be room for you to stay when spending the weekend with them.
Take Your Time Deciding
Although the decision has been made, there is no hurry to move them overnight. Take your time deciding and consider all the options available to you. You will want to know that there is support staff on the premises at all times and that there is a nurse on hand if one of your parents needs medical attention. If you and your parents agree that this is the place for them, then moving can be a slow and steady process.
Rushing your parents will only make them apprehensive, and since you want to avoid as much stress as possible, let them go at their own pace. Once the move is accomplished, remember to visit them frequently in the very beginning. Not only will this help them adjust better, but you will feel better about the choice as well.
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