For many older adults, the desire to remain in their own home is strong—but when health challenges increase or daily tasks become unsafe, transitioning to a long-term care facility can become the best and safest option. Whether the decision was made thoughtfully over time or prompted by a sudden health event, the process of moving to a skilled nursing facility can be emotionally complex for both seniors and their families.
Your support before, during, and after the move plays a crucial role in helping your loved one adjust to their new environment and thrive in this next chapter of life. Here's how to ease the transition with care and compassion.
Before the Move: Prepare with Purpose and Sensitivity
Long-term care facilities offer essential medical support and daily assistance, but they often come with limited personal space. Helping your loved one feel “at home” in a smaller setting starts with thoughtful planning:
- Understand the space and policies: Contact the facility to learn about room size, furniture allowances, and guidelines for personal items.
- Downsize mindfully: Help your loved one decide what to bring, what to store, and what to pass on. Choose familiar items—like cherished photos, a favorite blanket, or a small bookshelf—to recreate a comforting environment.
- Label belongings: To avoid loss or confusion, mark all clothing and personal items with your loved one’s name and maintain a simple inventory list.
- Address special needs: If your loved one has a pet, find out if the facility allows animals or make plans for their ongoing care.
- Emotional preparation: Have open conversations about the move, validate your loved one’s feelings, and discuss what they can expect during the transition.
On Moving Day: Offer Support, Stability, and Comfort
Moving day can be stressful, but your presence and preparation can help ease anxiety and provide much-needed reassurance:
- Assist with settling in: Unpack familiar items, hang family photos, and arrange keepsakes to create a sense of continuity and comfort.
- Share a meal together: Eating in the new environment with your loved one can reduce feelings of isolation and help normalize the change.
- Meet the staff: Introduce yourself to caregivers and help your loved one become familiar with the care team and available activities.
- Stay present: Once things are unpacked, spend quiet time together to offer emotional grounding and help your loved one feel secure.
After the Move: Stay Connected and Involved
Adjusting to life in a care facility can take time. Your ongoing involvement helps ensure your loved one doesn’t feel forgotten or disconnected from family and community.
- Visit regularly: Frequent visits help normalize your loved one’s new routine and show consistent emotional support.
- Build new connections: Encourage your loved one to participate in group activities and meet fellow residents. Celebrate these new friendships and become familiar with their new social circle.
- Bring joy: Thoughtful gifts—flowers, a digital photo album, or a favorite treat (within dietary guidelines)—can brighten their day and bring a touch of home.
- Stay in touch: Set up a phone, tablet, or computer so your loved one can communicate easily with friends and family. Encourage video chats and help them navigate technology if needed.
- Join the community: Attend care plan meetings, participate in family councils, and get to know the staff. Walk in the garden, enjoy a meal together, or attend a resident event. Your involvement speaks volumes.
How Geriatric Care Managers Can Help
Transitions to long-term care are often filled with questions, logistical challenges, and emotional hurdles. A Geriatric Care Manager (GCM) can be a trusted partner through the entire process. These professionals specialize in aging-related care coordination and advocacy, offering expert support for:
- Identifying the right long-term care facility based on your loved one’s health, preferences, and budget
- Helping with downsizing, organizing the move, and managing medical records
- Facilitating communication between family members and care staff
- Monitoring your loved one’s ongoing well-being and care quality
- Resolving challenges or concerns that may arise after the move
With a GCM’s guidance, you can feel more confident that your loved one’s transition to long-term care will be handled with compassion, thorough planning, and professional oversight.
Compassionate Support for Every Step of the Journey
📞 Schedule a Free Consultation to Support Your Loved One’s Move
Whether you're preparing for a move or navigating the early days of transition, LiveWell’s experienced geriatric care managers are here to guide you. Contact LiveWell today to schedule a free initial consultation and discover how our personalized care coordination can ease the journey—for your loved one and your family.
