For most, there comes a time in our lives were we know our parents need some assistance and they could benefit from the conveniences and assistance of a senior community. We get a little nervous about them living alone, it is hard for them to keep up with the maintenance their home requires and they are not able to do what it takes to take care of their own needs while managing all of this.

When that time comes, here are some tips to help you help your parents transition in a healthy way:

Don’t force the decision on them – Talk about the struggles they are encountering and how a senior living community could take away some of those burdens. Let them visit and see that these communities aren’t the nursing homes they remember their parents or grandparents living in. Let them get sold on the idea rather than being told this is what they need to do.

Support them in the downsizing process – As you can imagine, it is hard to see all you once held dear going away. Help them select what is functional in the new home as well as some items that they love to bring them inspiration. Have family members go through the items that are left, taking what they can use and what has meaning to them. Find good homes for the remaining items by doing a yard or estate sale or donating to your parent’s favorite charity.

Get them settled in their new home quickly without chaos – Moving after being in the family home for so long is hard enough. Having to live out of boxes and have disruptions to their lifestyle just makes things harder. Pack, move and unpack them as quickly as possible to avoid these feeling of disturbance.

To make this process run a little smoother, hiring an outside company that specializes in helping seniors transition smoothly, can help and so that family relationships remain strong and intact. To find out more about our downsizing, packing, moving and unpacking services, please call (909)307-4862. We have all of the resources and know-how to make this process less stressful for everyone involved.