How To Navigate Transition From Independent Living to Assisted Living?
If you’re planning a move from independent living to assisted living, you may be asking yourself a number of questions. There may also be some uncertainty about what lies ahead. Up until now, you have been living the retired life with greater independence and control over your daily life. However, there has been a situation where assisted living may be deemed necessary.
The thing to remember is that just because you are transitioning from independent living to assisted living, doesn’t mean you’re surrendering your independence. In fact, you can still live the same independent retired lifestyle you’ve had all along. Except some things may be different and for good reasons.
What’s The Difference Between Independent Living vs Assisted Living?
Knowing the difference between the two types of senior living is important. While there are similarities between independent living and assisted living, there are some distinctions that make them both different. Here’s a look at what they are:
- Independent living: Seniors in this living environment are able to do things they enjoy the entire day. They are in control of their schedule. In addition, they don’t need to worry about things like doing their own maintenance and upkeep tasks since the community staff does that. You also get access to amenities that align with your lifestyle.
- Assisted living: While your independence is still yours, there are some things that will be different. You may need assistance with certain activities like medication management, dressing, bathing, or getting around. Nevertheless, you do not surrender your independence because of any limitations you may have.
When Might It Be Time For Assisted Living?
There are plenty of deciding factors that go into determining whether or not assisted living is the best way forward. Typically, events such as changes in health, mobility, and increased safety concerns are some of the major reasons. Here are possible signs where it may be time to transition from independent living to assisted living:
- Managing medication becomes more challenging
- The frequency of falls has increased or you experience mobility challenges
- Poor nutrition or missed meals
- Lack of social interaction or isolation
- Difficulty with personal hygiene
If these signs are recognized early, it may be time to consider the idea of assisted living. This can help reduce the potential of emergency situations while also making the transition much smoother. While considering assisted living, it may be a good idea to let your immediate family know of your plans especially if you are already living in an independent living setting. This will help them mentally prepare for the transition and give them opportunities to assist you whenever and wherever necessary.
Choosing the Right Assisted Living Community
Many independent living communities may already have assisted living available on-site. If you have had a positive experience with the community, you are already confident in the kind of care you receive. You won’t have to spend time choosing an assisted living community that fits you best because you’re basically already there (just haven’t transitioned yet).
However, if the assisted living community is different from your current living environment, you’ll want to choose a place that focuses on your care needs. This includes the following:
- Care services: Do they align with your current and future needs?
- Staff: Are they well-trained, friendly, professional, and attentive?
- Community life: What activities are available for hobbies, socialization, fitness, etc.?
- Safety features: What’s offered in the rooms, common areas, dining areas, etc.?
- Personalization: Are the care plans more personalized or do they seem like a “one-size-fits-all” approach?
It never hurts to answer any of these questions. You can take a tour of the assisted living community if necessary. In addition, speaking with current residents can also give you a good idea of what to expect with living in such an environment. Nevertheless, the more you know about your anticipated transition from independent living, the better.
How To Make The Transition Smooth and Stress-Free As Possible
After choosing an assisted living retirement community, the preparation of moving is the next crucial step. To help make the process as less stressful as possible, here are some tips that you can follow:
- Visit in advance: This will help you familiarize yourself with the layout, activity schedule, and other important aspects of assisted living life.
- Downsize, but be thoughtful: This includes keeping meaningful and useful items. Anything else can be donated, disposed, or sold (whichever is possible).
- Communicate accordingly: Inform staff about your usual routines, preferences, and concerns you might have.
Navigate Your Transition with Confidence at Lyndale San Angelo Today!
The transition from independent living to assisted living has its challenges. However, it can be a bit easier once you know how to prepare and navigate the process. At Lyndale San Angelo, we do our best to make sure that your next chapter in retirement is a smooth transition. We know that assisted living is something you may need. But we assure you that your independence is still intact. For more information on how we can assist you, contact us today.
