Long-term care communities, like assisted living, are nothing like the stereotype associated with older adult care. Despite the planning and research, it’s normal to experience some feelings of guilt as your loved one transitions into this new space.
It’s up to us to remind ourselves that this decision is an act of love and care. When we reframe this transition, it’s easier to see how assisted living benefits your loved one. This can be done by:
- Educating yourself
- Openly communicating
- Seeking support
- Focusing on the positive
All About Assisted Living
To find comfort in your decision to transition a loved one into assisted living, it’s helpful to understand the purpose of this community and how it caters to residents’ well-being.
Assisted living is a type of long-term care community dedicated to helping older adults maintain independence while assisting them in completing activities of daily living (ADLs). For some, growing older can mean experiencing challenges, making everyday tasks that were once effortlessly completed more difficult.
Residents in assisted living are social, relatively mobile, and self-sufficient but require support with tasks like dressing, grooming, and medication management.
With the help of our professional care staff, assisted living bridges the gap between independent living and full-time intensive care, making it an attractive option for families and potential residents.
Our assisted living community offers residents many benefits, encouraging them to enjoy the comforts of supportive living. Here, residents can focus their energy on self-fulfillment instead of daily living tasks.
Assisted living communities often offer:
- 24/7 onsite personal care staff to help with ADLs
- Onsite wellness therapists
- Weekly housekeeping and laundry
- Daily light housekeeping
- Hair salon services
- Social events, classes, and activities
- Nutritious meals
How Assisted Living Supports Families
Moving a loved one to assisted living doesn’t just benefit the person transitioning, it also offers significant support to families.
These moves are always done in good faith, yet it’s normal to feel guilty. When you feel confident that your loved one is safe and cared for, the guilt you’re experiencing may begin to lift.
This decision was made for the betterment of your loved one’s overall health, safety, and quality of life. Find peace in knowing they’ll have:
- Enhanced safety: Knowing your loved one is in an environment with emergency response systems and trained staff reduces anxiety about accidents or health crises.
- Improved well-being: Communities offer companionship, nutritious meals, and regular activities, which can help older adults thrive emotionally and physically.
- More family time: Allowing professionals to delegate daily care tasks allows you to spend more time having meaningful interactions with your loved one.
- Support for family caregivers: Assisted living communities often offer resources to keep families informed and connected, easing caregiving responsibilities.
- Encouragement of autonomy: Recognizing that your loved one is living an independent yet supported life can bring a sense of relief and comfort.
Overcoming Guilt During Your Loved One’s Move to Assisted Living
There are several strategies we can use to reframe this transition so that it’s easier to see this decision as an act of love and care:
- Educate yourself: Learn about the community’s services, living arrangements, and staff-to-resident ratio. Understanding the purpose, support, and benefits of assisted living and the specific services your loved one will receive helps alleviate some apprehension and provide peace of mind.
- Communicate openly: Have an honest discussion with your parent about the move and explain why assisted living is beneficial for their overall wellness. Listen to their concerns and, if you can, involve them in decision-making to foster a sense of partnership. Two-way communication reduces feelings of uncertainty for both of you.
- Seek support: Connect with friends, support groups, or other families who have been through similar experiences to share advice and reassurance. Sharing can help reduce feelings of isolation or guilt.
- Focus on the positive: Keep your eyes on the benefits of the move. Enhanced safety, social opportunities, and professional care can improve your loved one’s quality of life.
Staying Connected in Assisted Living
A common concern we see among families is their worry about being physically distanced from their loved ones. One of the many perks of living in such a digital and globalized age is how easy it is to connect with those we love.
Maintaining a close relationship with your loved one after their move is also a great way to support them as they transition into their new space.
Consistent communication and thoughtful gestures reassure your loved one that they remain in your life. These connections foster emotional well-being and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Here are some meaningful ways to stay engaged with your loved one while nurturing your relationship:
- Visit regularly: Schedule weekly or biweekly visits to share meals, take walks, or simply enjoy each other’s company.
- Make use of technology: Set up video calls or send voice messages to stay in touch when in-person visits aren’t possible.
- Send care packages: Include sentimental items, snacks, or books that will bring joy and comfort to your loved one, letting them know you’re thinking of them.
- Celebrate milestones: Organize celebrations or small gatherings for birthdays, holidays, or important achievements.
- Participate in community events: Our community encourages families to stay connected and involved in their loved one’s care. We can do this by joining in on community activities and programs.
Find a Supportive Community for Your Loved One
Transitioning a loved one to assisted living is a decision rooted in care, love, and hope for a better quality of life.
While feelings of guilt may arise, focusing on how the community benefits your loved one and maintaining close ties can help ease those emotions. Connect with our team at All American Assisted Living at Wrentham to schedule a tour of our assisted living community with your loved one.
