When your loved one moves into an assisted living community, making their new space feel like home is essential.
Bringing familiar items from their previous residence can help ease the transition and make them feel more comfortable. Consider including their favorite books, photos, decorative pieces, and family heirlooms to add a personal touch.
Involving your loved one in decorating can also make them feel more included and help them adjust to their new living arrangement. Creating a personalized and welcoming space can make their move to assisted living a smoother and more positive experience.
Organizing the Transition into Assisted Living
Plan Ahead
When preparing a living space for a senior loved one, it is important to plan and create a realistic floor plan that allows for proper furniture placement. It is crucial to avoid overcrowding the space and instead focus on surrounding them with cherished items that bring them comfort and joy.
Donate
If items don’t fit in the new space or if your loved one has a lot of items, consider selling, donating, or sharing them with family members. This will improve the function of the living space and can enhance your loved one’s quality of life by prioritizing organization.
Consider Furniture Carefully
When downsizing and organizing your living space, multi-functional furniture can be a great solution. Not only does it save space, but it can also provide additional storage options. A recliner can be a great option, as it allows your loved one to get off their feet and improve circulation.
Eliminate Clutter
Using decorative organizational boxes or baskets can keep items together and easily accessible, eliminating clutter and making it easier for your loved one to find what they need.
Use Space Effectively
When selecting décor for the space, prioritize practicality over purely decorative items to maximize space in a small apartment. While creating a warm and inviting environment is important, it is equally important to ensure that the area is functional and easy to navigate.
Setting Up Your New Assisted Living Space
Prevent Falls by Thinking Ahead
It’s important to consider fall prevention measures by ensuring clear pathways of tripping hazards such as cords and loose rugs. Be mindful of small cords that could cause tripping accidents, and ensure they’re tucked away properly.
Prioritize Safety in the Bathroom
Bathroom safety should also be a top priority, especially for seniors. Installing grab bars and non-slip mats can greatly reduce the risk of falls. Keeping the bathroom clutter-free can also help prevent accidents. It may be a good idea to keep a hamper for towels and discarded clothing in the bathroom.
Consider Surface Safety
Consider oval or circular tables with non-glass surfaces to help eliminate sharp edges and breakable surfaces.
Spruce Up the Bedroom
If you’re looking to refresh the bedroom, consider investing in new linens, upholstery, and decorative pillows. These simple changes can make a positive difference in the overall look and feel of the room and make it a more inviting space for your loved one.
Color & Lighting
Bright colors can help uplift mood, especially for those with memory loss. Also, ensure adequate lighting near the bed, a reading chair, or a desk for writing or crafting.
Add Personal Touches in Assisted Living
Add Fake or Real Plants
Adding plants can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in an apartment. Don’t forget that artificial flowers look realistic and require no maintenance. Placing them on a high shelf can add a pop of color.
Make Room for Hobbies & Projects
Make sure to create a space in their apartment for hobbies such as stamp collecting, painting, playing an instrument, or completing jigsaw puzzles. Dedicate enough room for their projects and organize their supplies.
Bring Personal Belongings
Incorporate personal belongings such as cherished antiques, a favorite coffee cup, a comforting quilt, or a cozy reading chair to make your loved one feel more at home. Allow their taste and style to shine by personalizing the decor with relaxing neutral hues or adding colorful linens, throw pillows, blankets, and artwork. Use vintage finds and sentimental accessories throughout their apartment to surround them with fond memories.
Tips for Moving a Loved One into an Assisted Living Community
Be Positive & Encouraging
When transitioning a loved one into an assisted living facility, it’s important to maintain a positive attitude. While the process can be emotionally and physically draining, it’s crucial to consider your loved one’s input on how they want their new space organized and decorated.
Make Time for Yourself
Additionally, taking care of yourself during this time is paramount. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, take breaks when needed, and ensure you eat healthy and get enough sleep. Remember, as challenging as this transition may be,, it’s ultimately for the benefit and well-being of your loved one.
Compassionate Assisted Living Care
With the right preparation and resources, you can help make a smooth transition into assisted living. Seek out professional assistance and support from family and friends, and together build a space that your whole family will love.
Additionally, don’t forget to explore creative ideas for decorating their new home, ensuring a comfortable and personalized living space.
At Villa De Anza in Riverside, CA, we are ready to help your loved one make the transition to their new home. Book a tour today—we look forward to seeing you.
