Tips About the Journey from Assisted Living to Nursing Homes

Moving from assisted living to a nursing home can be a significant change for seniors and their families. Here are some tips to help your loved one move to any type of skilled nursing facility.

Moving From Assisted Living to a Nursing Home

Every time an aging adult moves from their home to an assisted living community or nursing home, there will be adjustments. Here are some tips for transitioning to any facility that offers skilled nursing care. 

Plan ahead.

Anticipate future care needs and plan accordingly. Regularly assess the senior’s health, mobility, and cognitive abilities to determine if assisted living is still suitable or if there is cognitive decline, indicating a higher level of care is required.

Consult with healthcare professionals.

Seek guidance from healthcare professionals, including physicians, social workers, and care managers in assisted living communities. They can provide valuable insights into the senior’s care needs and recommend appropriate levels of care. They can also provide insight into the medical equipment your loved one may need while living at a residential facility. 

Explore options.

Research nursing homes in the area and schedule tours to visit skilled nursing facilities. Consider factors such as location, quality of care, staffing ratios, amenities, and cost.

Involve the senior when making the decision.

Family members should include the senior in discussions about transitioning to a nursing home. Here are some ways you can do involve the senior in your life seeking care:

• Listen to their preferences and concerns.
• Involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible.
• Maintain open and honest communication with the senior and other family members throughout the transition.
• Address any fears or anxieties they may have and provide reassurance and support.

Coordinate care services.

Work closely with the staff at the assisted living facility and the nursing home to coordinate the transition. Ensure that medical records, care plans, medications, and other necessary information are transferred smoothly.

Prepare for emotional adjustments.

Recognize that transitioning to assisted living facilities can be emotionally challenging for both the seniors and their family members. Allow time for adjustment and offer emotional support throughout the process.

Personalize the living space.

Help the senior in your life personalize their own apartment or new living space in the nursing home. Assisted living residents like having familiar items nearby to make their senior living community feel more comfortable and familiar. Bring familiar items from home, such as photographs, blankets, or decorations.

Stay involved.

Stay involved in the senior’s care even after they transition to a place with skilled nursing services. Visit regularly, participate in care planning meetings, and advocate for their needs to ensure they receive quality care and support.

Take care of yourself.

Caring for a loved one during transitions can be stressful. Remember to prioritize self-care and seek support from friends, a family member, or support groups if needed.

Transitioning from assisted living to a nursing home can be challenging, but with careful planning, communication, and support, seniors and their families can navigate this journey successfully while ensuring the senior’s safety, comfort, and well-being.

If your loved one needs a higher level of care – whether they are moving from an independent living facility or their own home, consult with the staff members at Mira Vie for a consultation. We can provide skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services for your loved one with complex medical conditions. For those with memory issues, we offer specialized memory care units with medical staff specializing in dementia care. And, of course, we also provide skilled care for those needing help with the activities of daily living.

Key Takeaways: Tips for Moving to an Assisted Living Community or Nursing Home

• Plan ahead.
• Consult with other healthcare professionals.
• Explore options – such as continuing care retirement communities.
• Involve the senior when making the decision.
• Coordinate care services.
• Prepare for emotional adjustments.
• Personalize the living space.
• Stay involved.
• Take care of yourself.