There will undoubtedly be some queries and worries when it comes to talking about relocating your loved one to a retirement community. Seniors frequently find the idea of leaving their homes stressful and frightening, so it may take some persuasion to convince them that shifting into an assisted living community is their best course of action for them. Here are the 4 most common fears of moving to a retirement community and how to help you or your loved one overcome them.
Fear of Losing Freedom and Independence
Your loved one could be worried that once they leave the house, their independence would be restricted.
However, assistance with routine tasks like cooking and cleaning should be viewed as a positive, as these activities have likely grown laborious and time-consuming over the years.
Your loved one will really have more spare time to spend doing the things they like to do, whether it be a peaceful afternoon of crocheting or playing cards with friends if things like housekeeping and maintenance are taken care for them.
Without needing to be dependent on family members to be transported to various locations, your loved one may decide which activities to participate in with the use of chauffeured transportation at retirement communities that helps residents get between destinations safely and comfortably.
Fear of Abandonment
Seniors who move into assisted living facilities frequently worry that after they settle in, their family and friends will forget them.
During the early phase of transition, it’s crucial for family members to schedule frequent visits with their loved ones to keep them at ease in their new surroundings.
The team at the retirement community should be aware of your loved one’s needs and be prepared to provide more complex care if required.
Fear of Letting Go to Familiar Things
Moving to a different place at any age can be daunting.
It can be very challenging to decide which possessions to keep because the house itself and the all the things inside it symbolize priceless memories.
Your loved one doesn’t have to forsake all of those possessions, though. There are some personal items that can be brought into an assisted living facility.
You can arrange a family gathering, including your elderly loved one, to go through these treasured possessions that hold sentimental value to them, hear the tales behind them, and decide which ones will be brought along during the move.
Fear of Costs of Moving to a Retirement Community
Because of the associated fees, many seniors may believe that living in a retirement community is not a viable option for them.
They will soon realize how rapidly all of the expenses of living in a house mount up if they start to tally up the costs of upkeep (such as utility bills and property taxes), essential home renovations (such making it wheelchair-accessible), and eventually the cost of in-home health care.
Depending on your financial situation and if you qualify for Social Security, VA, or other benefits, moving into a retirement community may be more affordable than you think.
Though change is always daunting, making the switch is sometimes worthwhile in the end. Help your loved one obtain a peace of mind when moving to a retirement home by addressing these common fears covered!
