Creating a Safe Environment – 4 Tips for Transitioning to Assisted Living
A safe environment is more than just adherence to industry regulations. It’s also about creating an atmosphere that prioritizes employee well-being.
Moving into assisted living is a big change in someone’s life. It’s important to take the time to prepare for this move and make sure they will be comfortable in their new home.
Get to Know the Staff
Assisted living communities offer many opportunities for residents to socialize and get to know one another. However, it takes time to develop relationships. The key is to make sure your loved ones are connected with other residents, staff, and family members.
Visiting a community multiple times is important, especially during activities and mealtimes. Look for a friendly, welcoming staff, clean surroundings, and an inviting atmosphere.
Also, talk to your loved ones about their passions and interests so that the care team can provide them with recreation opportunities. Research shows that social connection is a major defense against dementia and cognitive decline. Assisted living communities should promote social connection by offering games, devotions, karaoke, happy hours, and trips. They should also make it easy for residents to send critical alerts to the staff when they need help. Alarm systems with motion sensors can be a vital tool for safety.
Get to Know Your Loved One for Safe Environment
When helping your loved one feel safe in assisted living in Orlando, getting to know them is key. This means spending quality time with them without distractions. Silence your phone and turn off any calls or texts, allowing you to give them your undivided attention while you’re together.
Make it a point to visit often or at least regularly. This helps your loved one stay connected to family and can help them forget their worries about the transition. Getting to know their neighbors and staff is also a good idea, as they can support you both.
In addition, try to cancel utilities services at their old home. This will prevent your parent from accumulating late charges after moving into their new community. You can staff to help them find out how to do this if needed.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
When living in a community, getting to know your neighbors is important. Developing a good relationship with your neighbors increases the overall quality of life and provides a sense of security. Neighbors can watch over your loved ones’ homes when you are gone and even help with simple tasks.
Assisted living communities offer many opportunities for residents to interact with their neighbors, such as group activities, events, and dining rooms. Encourage your senior loved one to introduce themselves and connect with their neighbors as they go about their day.
This is not to say your senior loved one should ignore their apartment and spend all of their time in the common areas, but rather that they should set a goal to interact with a new neighbor at least once per day. This could be as simple as introducing themselves in the lobby or saying hello to someone in line for a restaurant visit.
Be Patient
When seniors transition to assisted living, it can take time to feel comfortable in their new environment. They may have some anxiety or apprehension, especially if they are worried about losing their independence. This is normal.
Effective communication during this period can ease these feelings. Talk to your parent about their concerns and actively listen, making them feel heard and understood. It is important to help them realize that they will have access to many social activities and can spend their time doing what they enjoy.
Consider touring communities together if your parent is apprehensive about moving to assisted living. This can dispel many fears and give them a sense of control in this new situation. It will also show that you support them without judging their decision.
