Many people struggle to come to terms with the fact that they are no longer best placed to manage their own affairs. It may be difficult for them to accept that help is required for tasks that have been independently carried out for many years.
Additionally, the process of watching a loved one age can also be challenging for family members. Occasionally, moving a close relative into an assisted living facility may feel like a betrayal. However, this is not the case. Ensuring that your elderly relative gets the best care available can be in the best interests of all parties.
Crucially, there are ways that you can help a loved one with the transition into assisted living:
Provide extra support in the early stages
Elderly relatives may exhibit behaviors such as frustration, anger and sadness in the early stages of entering assisted living. However, offering patience and support during this period could be helpful. Frequently, elderly relatives also take comfort in bringing as much from their previous setting as possible. Items such as family photo albums could help them to feel more at home.
Continue to be a regular part of their lives
Regular communications could bring great comfort to elderly relatives. Weekly visits and phone calls can help reassure loved ones that they are still an important aspect of your life. Additionally, placing a lot of effort into birthday celebrations and festivities could make sure that they feel valued.
Try not to feel guilty
It is not uncommon for loved ones to feel guilty upon seeking out an assisted living facility for a family member. However, it is important to remember that you had their best interests at heart in taking the decision. Letting go of any guilt could help you to provide a much higher level of support in the long run.
Consider guardianship or conservatorship
It may also be time to consider guardianship or conservatorship for your senior loved one, especially if they no longer have the capacity to direct their own care or protect their assets. You can take legal steps to make sure they aren’t abused or neglected.
Accepting this stage of your loved one’s life can be tough for everyone, but experienced guidance can help you through it.
