You’ve made significant progress in your journey to senior living, from determining the best care option, calculating the cost, having the conversation, and preparing for the move. As move-in day approaches, knowing what to expect will ease the transition – physically and emotionally.
Adequate planning can be the difference between moving into senior living with nervous excitement or stress. The more you can prepare ahead of time, the smoother the move-in day will go.
Move-In Day Schedule
An impactful method of planning for moving day is to understand the process. Although every community has its own set of steps and procedures, you can generally expect the following events to occur:
The assisted living community will help schedule and coordinate the move. The staff will provide a timeframe – such as between noon and 5:00 p.m. – when you can bring your belongings and start moving in.
Whether helping a loved one or transitioning to a community environment, ensure you facilitate the move within the designated time. Attempting to arrive any earlier could mean you’ll have to wait for your apartment to be ready.
When you arrive, a representative will greet you and your family and guide you to the apartment. They’ll ensure you and your loved ones know where things are and will answer your questions.
Once you become acquainted with the apartment, you’ll receive the keys and other helpful information or wearable technology, like an emergency call pendant. If you need assistance with anything, such as Wi-Fi setup or cable TV connection, you can submit a work order, and a friendly staff member will help. The community’s maintenance team is there to assist you, so don’t hesitate to ask for whatever you need.
After you get everything inside the apartment, it’s time to add your personal touch. Hang artwork, set up picture frames, unpack clothing items, and make the space your own. The sooner you unpack, the more comfortable and relaxed you and your loved ones will be.
It’s helpful to involve family and friends as you unpack. Perhaps consider preparing the apartment for your loved one while they meet with staff, enjoy a meal, or attend a program to ease anxiety.
To combat feeling overwhelmed when moving into senior living, consider creating a to-do list that outlines your essential tasks for the first few days. You could prioritize unpacking toiletries and assembling the bed on day one, organizing clothing on the second day, and setting up decorations on the third. However you choose to tackle the process, splitting it into tangible parts will help reduce stress.
Explore the New Chapter
After the boxes are empty, step back and relax. Consider arranging a meeting time with staff for introductions and to discuss needs – it can help make the transition easier.
As an older adult moving into senior living, feeling at home can take a while. Adult children and caregivers can also struggle with the new reality. However, you can do a few things to make the most of this new chapter.
Being the “new kid on the block” can feel intimidating – you’re in a different place with people you don’t yet know. Making your apartment feel like home is one of the best ways to familiarize yourself with a new environment.
From a wreath on your door to family photographs, the more you make your apartment cozy and inviting, the better. Adding a personal touch helps calm your nerves and lets other residents learn about you.
Another way to feel more at home is by spending time with those you love. Consider inviting your family and friends over once you’ve settled in. Give them an all-inclusive tour, introduce them to staff and fellow residents, and enjoy a meal together. Before you know it, you’ll be extending invites to your neighbors for coffee dates and movie nights.
Although your loved one has officially moved into a senior living community, your role doesn’t disappear. Many older adults lean on their family and friends for support during the first few weeks and months.
One of the best ways to offer encouragement is by scheduling regular visits. Your planned get-togethers give your parent, spouse, or family member something to look forward to. Consider surprising them by bringing your children or others along.
When someone moves into a new home, giving them a housewarming gift shows you care. Perhaps cook your loved one’s favorite meals to fill their fridge. Doing so demonstrates your love for them and can help ease the anxiety often associated with eating meals in common spaces during the first few weeks.
Another way you can assist is by helping them develop a daily routine. Rituals provide comfort and familiarity, making them especially vital in new environments. Assisting your loved ones in establishing a routine allows them to settle into their new home and life.
Moving Into Senior Living Is Intimidating, But Sundale Can Help
Moving into senior living is an exciting and rewarding chapter of life. At Sundale Senior Living in Huntsville, TX, we help older adults take advantage of their retirement by providing a comfortable, vibrant community atmosphere where they can thrive.
Personalized support, nutritious, chef-inspired meals, renovated apartment-style living, and beautiful courtyards are but a few world-class assisted living amenities we offer. We aim to help you and your family seamlessly transition into our community. Our team’s dedication to every resident’s well-being ensures you and your loved ones receive the support needed to confidently enter this new phase.
If you’re ready to take the next step, speak with our Executive Director today. We look forward to meeting you!
