After 25 years of transitions, The Bristal Assisted Living has gained a few insights to share with seniors who are considering a move to senior living.
If you're considering a move to a senior living community, here are 25 helpful tips on everything from making the decision, making the move, and making yourself feel right at home:
1. Take your time.
Don't rush the decision. Spend time thinking about what you need and want from your new home.
2. Talk to family and friends.
Asking for help is essential. Family and friends will offer valuable support and fresh perspectives as you decide on your next steps.
3. Research your options.
Tour multiple senior living communities, read reviews, and ask questions about amenities, services, and activities to ensure you find the right fit.
4. Experience it as a resident.
Once you've narrowed down your options, ask to attend a community event. Have a meal in the dining room. Speak with other residents about their experiences. This will help you truly get a feel for what life at the community will be like.
5. Consider your health and lifestyle needs.
Think about whether you'll need medical assistance now or in the near future. Do you expect housekeeping and maintenance services to be included in your monthly rent? Are you interested in a more active community with a lot of opportunity to socialize, or a more private and isolated community?
6. Is the time right?
Reflect on whether this is the right time for you to move, based on your health, lifestyle, and future plans.
7. Review your finances.
Assess your financial situation, including income, savings, and long-term costs for different types of senior living arrangements. Make use of a cost comparison guide to understand the costs of staying versus moving somewhere new.
Download The Bristal Assisted Living Cost Comparison Guide here.
8. Create a moving plan.
Organize your move by creating a timeline and to-do list to make the process as smooth as possible.
9. Think about your new space.
Your new home will likely be smaller, so plan to make the most of your space by keeping only what's necessary and meaningful.
10. Downsize with others in mind.
Take inventory of what you need to bring with you and consider donating, selling, or giving things away that you no longer need.
11. Start packing early.
Begin packing early to avoid feeling rushed. Focus on the essentials and keep sentimental items that bring you comfort.
12. Label boxes clearly.
Label your boxes to help make unpacking easier. One trick is to use colored stickers to represent the various rooms where the contents belong.
13. Ask for help with the move.
Whether you hire movers or rely solely on family and friends, ask for help to make the physical aspects of moving easier.
14. Take advantage of senior discounts.
Many moving companies offer senior discounts. Be sure to inquire about any potential cost savings.
15. Tour your new community again.
Before moving in, schedule another tour of your new community to begin familiarizing yourself with the layout and amenities.
16. Meet your new neighbors.
Take the time to introduce yourself to fellow residents. There may be a welcoming committee of residents ready to greet you and make you feel more at ease.
17. Get to know the team.
The team members are there to help and support you. Get to know them and let them get to know you. Learn their names and feel free to ask them any questions you might have.
18. Review the programming schedule.
Explore the activities that the community offers. This will help you get involved and meet others with similar interests.
19. Review the dining options.
Review the menu offerings and available seating times. Discuss any special dietary restrictions you have with the dining team.
20. Ask for help when you need it.
Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you need anything, whether it's adjusting to the community, unpacking, finding information, or managing day-to-day tasks.
21. Create a sense of home.
Personalize your apartment with familiar items from home. Hang photographs of friends and family or your favorite art pieces. Make your new space feel like home from day one.
22. Stay open-minded and active.
If the transition feels overwhelming, remember that it's a very common feeling that many people have. Stay open-minded to new experiences, new people, and new activities as you start your next chapter. Staying active, with fitness and other activities, helps you maintain your health and energy.
23. Find a routine.
Create a daily routine to help you adjust. A predictable schedule can provide comfort and stability during your transition.
24. Stay connected with loved ones.
Keep in touch with family and friends by phone, video calls, and in-person visits to stay grounded and connected.
25. Be patient with yourself.
Give yourself time to adjust. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions as you're transitioning to senior living, but with time and some effort, you'll begin to feel more comfortable.
