It is important to remember that transitioning from the comfort of our own homes – the most comfortable and familiar space we know – to living elsewhere is a big step for anyone. We each cope with change differently and for many people, the path towards assisted living is an overwhelming, stressful and emotional experience.
Allowing your loved one to raise their concerns about the transition ahead and calmly discussing it with them is a good starting point – they may still have trouble accepting the move but studies have shown that for aged care residents, initial negative attitudes are more likely to improve if the overall transition process is smooth.
Once your loved one has moved into their new home, surrounding them with familiar items with sentimental value, such as collectibles and family photos, as well as some of their favourite creature comforts can help feel your loved feel more at home. Regular communication is also particularly important, especially in the early stages, whether it is visits, phone calls, letters or even Skype calls.
Overall, treating each individual with dignity makes the experience of change much smoother, a courtesy afforded to all residents on a daily basis. This was reflected recently by a resident who said, “I feel uplifted here – people treat you like a person. I like it here…there is respect.”
At Twilight Aged Care, we pride ourselves in our ability to ensure each person’s needs are attentively considered and attended to. Ranging from general care, such as organising medication and assisting with mobility, to more complex needs like, podiatry, physiotherapy, exercise therapy or oxygen therapy, we understand that some residents’ needs are more complex than others.
We offer Respite Care for caregivers, Dementia Care at all stages of development and mindful Palliative Care, sensitive to each family’s individual requests. With a registered nurse on hand to provide emergency assistance 24 hours a day, we provide these services to the highest standard.
As one resident’s family member recounts, “When I first rang you nearly two years ago, I sensed something fantastic for Mum – I could hear it in your voice. From that point on I was always impressed with your compassion and professionalism.”
Ultimately, the settling process is likely to take some time and is often dependent on a sense of belonging. Twilight aims to help each resident feel included as part of their new community, with regular activities and lifestyle programs an integral part of this process. These activities encourage interaction while entertaining your loved ones in both mentally and physically stimulating ways.
Some of the lifestyle and activity programs offered at Twilight’s homes include:
- Tai Chi
- Art classes
- Bingo
- Gardening
- Music groups
- Outings and excursions
- Volunteer visits
- Pet therapy
Moving to a situation of assisted living is a new chapter in life, and is not without its challenges. However, the journey will continue beyond the initial transition so the understanding and support provided during the early stages can help to ease your loved one into a happy, meaningful lifestyle.
At Twilight, we are committed to ensuring that each of our residents is treated with the utmost care and respect and we work tirelessly to create trustworthy and supportive communities, made up of residents, their families, staff and volunteers.
Please contact Twilight if you would like to discuss assisted living options for your loved one.
