Tips for Family Members with Loved Ones in Assisted Living

Having a senior parent or loved one in an assisted living residence or other long-term senior care facility often presents families with mixed emotions. On one hand, you’re happy knowing your loved one is being cared for and experiencing a full life, but on the other hand, you may be experiencing feelings of guilt, shame or worry. 

Know that you are not alone with these feelings. Many adult children of aging parents deal with these very same thoughts. Below is a guide to better help you cope with your loved one transitioning to an assisted living community. 

1. Maintain Regular Communication

   Your parents still want to hear from you and your family. Avoiding the situation of your loved one being in a retirement community will make your negative emotions and thoughts grow. Call regularly to check in on them and to make sure they are adjusting well. Maintaining regular communication and knowing that they are well will help you feel more secure in the choice you made for your parents. 

2. Visit frequently

   Making frequent visits to see your loved one in their new assisted living home will help maintain the trust and connection between the two of you. Showing that you actively want to remain a part of their lives and that you are interested in their new life will spark joy in your parents. They will be excited to share their new interests and hobbies with you. Perhaps you can make it a family trip where your children can spend some time with their grandparents while enjoying a weekend getaway. 

3. Craft Thoughtful Gifts

   To help your parents readjust to their new assisted living home, spend some time crafting some home decorations for their space. Shadow boxes, collages, hand-sewn goods, pictures and paintings are heartfelt gifts that will keep them thinking of you while you’re away. They will be happy you considered them and their comfort in this new transition. 

Find Assisted Living Options Near You

MorningStar Assisted Living Des Moines provides high-quality care and safety assurances for seniors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a safe and secure senior living community. With a commitment to safety, experienced staff members, and state-of-the-art safety features, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care possible with us at MorningStar. 

Contact us today to learn more about MorningStar’s Assisted Living retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have, and our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision. Our holistic approach to senior care sets us apart from other senior assisted living facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see our exceptional options for seniors seeking independent and assisted living in Des Moines, IA.