How to help a loved one take the next, positive step in their life when transitioning to an active living community.

No matter what age or living situation, moving is a major part of life. And when a loved one is ready to move into an active living community, it can be just as stressful and disorienting as a student heading off to college or a couple buying their first home. But when a family member or friend is ready to transition from their current home to a new, more accommodating facility, it’s important to support them on the journey. If you’re helping a loved one relocate to a 55+ active living community, understand the significance of the move, and offer the care and compassion they need to ensure a safe, positive change in their life.

Focus on the Positive

Transitioning to an active living community should be a fun and exciting experience. By making the move, a loved one will eliminate the stress and frustration of living alone. From having access to helpful staff and resources, to growing a new, robust social life, the new community provides a safe and friendly place for active seniors to enjoy life.

There will be no more lawns to mow in the summer or driveways to shovel in the winter. Your loved one will no longer worry about home maintenance and property upkeep. All the headaches and concerns of homeownership vanish in a quality senior community.

Look for the amenities the new community offers. Today’s active 55+ facilities have much more to offer than just a craft room and a TV lounge. Beautiful walking paths, coffee shops, beauty salons, game rooms, computer rooms and more transform a senior residence into a friendly and fun community. And with a rich activity calendar, your loved one will have the opportunity to try new things and rediscover old hobbies.
Be supportive of this transition by recognizing all the great new opportunities your loved will experience. And take comfort in knowing all the hassles of their old living situation can be left behind.

Transitioning is a Process. Don’t Go Too Fast.

You and your loved one may worry that moving to an active living community means they will be simply dropped off at the front door and forgotten. It’s important for everyone involved to make the move at the right pace. Introducing a senior to a new place may take time. Ensure the new resident that this is not a rushed experience, and they are in control.

And stay connected. Reassure your loved one that you will call and visit often. Remind them that while this is a new home, it won’t change your relationship. Holidays and special events will still be celebrated. Relatives and friends will still stay in touch. The lines of communication will always remain open. And let them know everyone is supportive of the new change — they’re not leaving anyone behind.

Enjoy the Space

Let your loved one show you around — let them guide you on a tour of their new home. They take pride in the beautiful new community and will want to show it off. And a great way to support your loved one is by helping them decorate the space with familiar photos and memories. Help make their new environment inviting and loving. The transition is less abrupt and more friendly when you show them you care.
Talk with your loved one about meeting new people and look for new activities offered by the active living community. And take an active interest in their new social life by asking them questions and meeting their new friends.

Allow Them to Maintain Independence

The key to a successful transition is staying as independent as possible. This will not only help your loved one adjust to new surroundings, it will give them confidence when interacting with new people and accomplishing tasks. Keep your loved one motivated and encourage their independence in the safe environment of the active living community. Don’t be afraid. Don’t worry that they will be left helpless in a strange place. Your loved one is ready to make the move to an active 55+ community, a community dedicated to safe and friendly living. Let them enjoy their new home.

Support Your Loved One In Your Own unique Way

No one knows your loved one better than you. Talk with them. Ask them questions. Listen to their answers. And always reassure them that transitioning to an active living community is a fantastic part of their golden years. Take your time and understand every part of the process. And if you have any questions or concerns, you can always reach our helpful staff.
Give your loved one an amazing new place to grow, learn and enjoy their life.