When your loved ones arrive at a stage in their lives, where maybe…a little extra support can make each day easier, well, it’d not be something to fear. Rather, it’d be the start of something beautiful.
It’s about rediscovering oneself, fostering new and deeper friendships, finding the time that has once been lost, and simply, enjoying the beauty of life. This transition can be a significant change moving forward, not just for your loved ones, but for you as well.
But what is assisted living?
Assisted living closes the gap between complete independence and round the clock nursing care. It’s perfect for seniors who cherish their independence and active lifestyle, but are open to welcome a little extra support along the way.
In our residences, our Assisted Living Residents are treated with utmost respect and of course, heartfelt care. We aim to be their companions on this exciting, new chapter of their lives. With personalized support and genuine connection, we make sure our residents not just live, but truly breathe…as they pursue their passions and dreams.
This includes:
- Help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders
- Fresh, nutritious meals
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- 24/7 emergency response systems
- Opportunities for social interaction, recreation, and learning
All we aspire to do is provide just the right level of support, enough to ensure your loved one feels valued, empowered, and secure.
How do you understand your loved one’s needs?
Before doing anything else, take a moment to really observe how your loved one is doing day to day. Both their needs and preferences matter. So, pause and reflect: What are those things that still bring them joy? When do they feel most like themselves? What makes them feel safe and comfortable?
To get a clearer picture of the kind of support they might benefit from, here are a few areas to gently keep an eye on:
- Physical health: Are they managing their existing medical needs conveniently? Do they have chronic conditions that may require more frequent attention or specialized support?
- Memory and thinking: Do they sometimes need a little support with their memory or decision-making that may further boost their sense of confidence and safety?
- Emotional well-being: Do they seem fulfilled and connected, or might they benefit from more companionship, purpose-driven activities, or residences?
- Safety at home: Is their living space still supporting their needs? Are there potential risks that could be reduced with a safer, more accessible environment?
Now, while you make these important observations, it’s also very necessary you keep your loved one at the heart of every conversation. After all, this is their life and their journey. Their voices should always echo in every decision that is made. Have an open discussion, speak to their doctors if need be. It’s perfectly okay.
Before choosing assisted living, it’s crucial to consider how they’re doing in their current living arrangement. That way, you can make the right call together.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Assisted Living
Let’s get to know how to get assisted living step by step:
Step 1: Have a Conversation with Care and Empathy
Talking about assisted living can seem…a little bit daunting at first. But really, it doesn’t have to be. It’s important to start somewhere. And the key is to approach it with kindness and compassion. Just find a quiet moment, sit down together, and just have a conversation. Ask how they’ve been feeling, what’s been on their mind, and really listen. You can try phrases like: “I’ve noticed it’s getting harder to manage things at home. How are you feeling about that?; “What would it be like to live somewhere with more support and new friends?” Share your thoughts too, but do it gently. Let them know this isn’t about replacing their independence. It’s only about further strengthening it.
Step 2: Make an Assessment of their Needs and Preferences
Every person is different. So are their needs. Before moving forward, take some time to really understand where your loved one is, emotionally, physically, and day-to-day.
Make an attempt in asking gentle, thoughtful questions like:
- Are they managing any current health conditions or mobility challenges?
- Have you noticed any changes in memory or decision-making?
- Is their home still a safe and comfortable place for them?
- Could they benefit from a bit of companionship?
This seems intimidating doesn’t it? We understand but really, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Speaking to your family doctor or a care professional can also give you valuable insight as you consider the following steps.
Step 3: Explore Assisted Living Residences
Now that you have a better understanding of what your loved one needs and preferences, it’s time to start exploring residences together. Think of it like finding a new home. One that feels safe, comfortable, and full of life.
- Location: Is it close to family, friends, or places they are most familiar with?
- Care services: Can the residence support their current needs and adjust accordingly in the future?
- Living spaces: Are the rooms cozy, private, and easy to move around in?
- Activities: Is there a good mix of fun things to do like social events, fitness classes, or even their favourite creative hobbies?
- Meals: Are meals nutritious, diverse, and mindful of dietary needs?
- Staff: Are caregivers well-trained, kind, respectful, and available when needed?
If you can, schedule a virtual or in person tour. And don’t be shy about chatting with current seniors living there. Their stories will often tell you more than any brochure ever could. In this way, you can make a much more informed decision.
Step 4: Understand the Financial Picture
Assisted living is a major investment. But planning ahead can ease the stress. Here’s what you should review:
- Monthly fees: These include essentials such as housing, meals, and basic support. It’s helpful to know exactly what the package covers.
- Additional care charges: In case, your loved one needs extra medication management or more hands-on care, there might be additional charges.
- One-time fees: Some communities may have a move-in or administration fee, so it’s good to ask about that upfront.
- Funding options: Look into what works best for your family, whether it’s personal savings, long-term care insurance, or support from provincial programs.
Taking it step by step makes the process feel a lot less daunting and a lot more doable.
Step 5: Support the Move and Adjustment Period
Once you’ve chosen a residence and completed the paperwork, help your loved one transition smoothly:
- Pack together – Make it a shared moment. Gather all their favourite things to personalize their new home. From photos, cozy blankets, to their treasured books, evoke a sense of nostalgia.
- Pick the perfect time to move – Give yourselves time to ease into the day. A calm and quiet weekday morning is often hassle-free than a weekend rush.
- Meet the people – Introduce them to the friendly faces they’ll be seeing often. They could be team members, neighbours, and maybe even someone with whom a new friendship is yet to flourish.
- Encourage small steps – A new activity, a group meal, or just sitting in a common area can help break the ice in that first week.
And remember, adjustment takes time. Be present, be patient, visit often, and reassure them that it’s okay to feel a little uncertain during this major life change.
Final Words
Making the move to assisted living is a big step. Both emotionally and practically. But with the right preparation, it can also be the next beautiful chapter of your loved one.
Take your time. Understand how it all works, explore all the viable options, after all this is the decision of a lifetime. Make sure to have an open and honest conversation with them. Value their voice, their choices, and when they feel heard, the journey becomes effortless for everyone.
