Understanding the Levels of Care in Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, and Transitional Rehab
November 13, 2023The Elderberry Healthcare Approach To Senior Nutrition
January 24, 2024Transitioning to assisted living or skilled nursing in Asheville and the surrounding areas is a significant life event, often filled with emotions and uncertainties. It’s a move that signifies a new chapter, and like any major change, it requires careful planning and adjustment. The goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible for new residents. We’d like to offer some practical advice, checklists, and tips to ensure a comfortable and personalized move into assisted living or skilled nursing facilities.
Understanding the Change
Moving into an assisted living or skilled nursing facility is not just about physical relocation; it’s a lifestyle change. Understanding and accepting this new phase can significantly ease the transition. It’s a step towards ensuring continued care and enhanced quality of life, where health, safety, and community living are prioritized.
Preparing for the Move
Embarking on the journey to assisted living or skilled nursing involves more than just a change of address; it’s a step into a new way of life that demands careful preparation and thoughtful decision-making. The process of transitioning to a new living environment can be smooth and less daunting with the right approach. Preparing for the move is a crucial phase that sets the foundation for a comfortable and fulfilling experience in the new home. It involves three key steps: planning ahead, visiting the facility, and downsizing thoughtfully. Each of these steps plays a vital role in ensuring that the transition not only meets the specific care needs but also aligns with personal preferences and comfort. By taking these preparatory steps, individuals and their families can navigate this significant life change with confidence and peace of mind.
- Plan Ahead
Start planning early. Discuss with family members, healthcare providers, and potential facilities to understand the level of care needed and the amenities offered.
- Visit the Facility
Before moving, visit the facility multiple times to familiarize yourself with the environment and meet the staff and residents. This helps in easing anxiety and setting realistic expectations.
- Downsize Thoughtfully
Moving to a smaller living space means downsizing. Go through belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Remember to consider the size and layout of the new living space.
Checklist for Moving
Moving to a new living environment, especially into assisted living or skilled nursing facilities, requires meticulous planning and organization. A well-prepared checklist is essential for ensuring that nothing important is left behind during this significant transition. This checklist serves as a comprehensive guide to help you gather and organize everything needed for a seamless move. It covers a range of items from essential documents, which form the backbone of your legal and medical identity, to personal belongings that ensure comfort and familiarity in your new home. Additionally, considerations for furniture and decor help create a personalized and homely space, while electronics and entertainment items are crucial for leisure and staying connected. By following this checklist, you can rest assured that all your crucial and cherished items are accounted for, making your move to the new facility as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Essential Documents
- Legal documents (ID, power of attorney, health care directives)
- Medical records and prescriptions
- Insurance information
Personal Belongings
- Clothing suitable for the season
- Comfortable shoes and slippers
- Personal care items and toiletries
Furniture and Decor
- Check with the facility about the furniture provided
- Small pieces of furniture (a favorite chair or nightstand)
- Decorative items like photos, artwork, or plants to personalize the space
Electronics and Entertainment
- Television, radio, or music player
- Books, puzzles, or hobby supplies
- Laptop, tablet, or mobile phone
Tips for Personalizing the Living Space
- Decorate with Memories
Personalize the new living space with familiar items like family photos, a cherished quilt, or a favorite piece of art. These personal touches can make the space feel more like home.
- Keep it Functional and Safe
While decorating, consider mobility and safety. Ensure there’s enough space to move around comfortably, especially with walkers or wheelchairs. Avoid clutter and ensure cables are out of the way to prevent falls.
- Bring a Piece of Home
If there’s room, bring a small piece of furniture or an item that has always been part of the resident’s home. This continuity can be comforting in a new environment.
Settling In
- Engage in Social Activities
Encourage participation in social activities offered by the facility. This is an excellent way for new residents to make friends and feel part of the community.
- Establish a Routine
Help the new resident establish a daily routine that includes their favorite activities, meal times, and rest periods. A familiar routine can provide comfort and stability.
- Regular Visits and Communication
Regular visits from family and friends can significantly help in the transition. If physical visits aren’t possible, arrange for phone calls or video chats.
- Give it Time
Adjusting to a new living situation takes time. Be patient and allow the resident to acclimate at their own pace.
Continuous Support and Communication
Maintain open lines of communication with the facility staff. They can provide valuable insights into how the resident is adjusting and what can be done to help.
Conclusion
Moving to a skilled nursing or assisted living facility in Asheville is a major life transition that can be managed smoothly with proper planning and support. By understanding the new environment, preparing thoroughly, personalizing the living space, and engaging in the community, new residents can make a successful transition. Remember, it’s about creating a new home where they can live comfortably, receive the care they need, and continue to enjoy life.
Established in 1989, Elderberry Healthcare has been dedicated to serving the senior population of Madison County and its surrounding areas. Renowned for our compassionate care and attentive staff, our facility offers a range of services to meet diverse healthcare needs. With three distinct levels of care, Elderberry Healthcare caters to seniors requiring minimal support in Assisted Living, those in need of around-the-clock nursing care in the Skilled Nursing Unit, and provides Transitional Rehabilitation services for post-operative patients, including those recovering from orthopedic knee and hip replacements. Our facility is highly regarded, with 98% of transitional patients willing to return, thanks to amenities such as private rooms with bathrooms, restaurant-quality dining with room service, 24-hour hospital admissions, 7-day-a-week rehabilitation, large flat-screen TVs with over 50 channels, and WiFi in every room. Contact us today to learn more. Contact Form – Elderberry Health Care