Planning your move to a senior living community

While it can be painful to recognise that you or an ageing loved one are no longer able to cope with living alone, it’s important to face the problem early on. Ignoring warning signs can lead to preventable accidents and medical problems. Classic warning signs include falling, a worsening diet and/or weight loss, an unusually disorganised or dirty home, finding everyday tasks confusing, and feeling depressed or losing interest in previous activities and hobbies. Have a frank conversation about whether you or your loved one can manage day to day tasks (such as personal care and medication) to assess what kind of support you or they need, whether it’s home care, a move into an independent living community or a move to an assisted living facility.

If you’ve decided that a move to a senior residence is appropriate, take the time to find the right community. Start by establishing your budget, then ask friends and family for references, look up communities online, and visit the places you’ve shortlisted to learn more about their amenities, services and residential offers. Independent seniors may experience a decline in health in the future, so communities that offer both independent and assisted living may be ideal.

Les Terrasses de Chantenay offers residents the privacy and independence of living in their own apartments while providing personal care and support services as and when needed. These include daily housekeeping and laundry; trained staff and nurses available around the clock; an emergency call response system; the provision of three healthy, delicious meals a day; a constantly evolving programme of activities including art courses, tai chi classes and board games; and an on-site medical centre.

Moving is both physically and emotionally exhausting, especially if you or your loved one have not moved for decades. It’s completely normal to feel sadness and apprehension ahead of the relocation, or to fear a loss of control. Give yourself or your loved one time to accept the change, focus on the benefits of your or their new home and ask family members for help with the move itself.

As it’s likely you’ll be moving into a smaller space, you’ll need to select what furniture and objects to bring. Start with the non-negotiable items and keepsakes that will make you feel comfortable in your new home, while keeping in mind how things will fit into your new living space.

If you’re helping a parent or loved one move, respect their emotional attachment to their furnishings and mementoes and take the time to reminisce with them.

Take advantage of the services provided by your new community as you or your loved one settle in. Les Jardins de Chantenay and Les Terrasses de Chantenay make a concerted effort to welcome new arrivals and ensure their transition to assisted living is as smooth as possible. Staff and residents are made aware of new arrivals, and a welcoming lunch is prepared on their first day. Both communities also offer events, trips and activities to encourage new residents to get to know their neighbours, while each new resident also receives an Individualised Care Plan based on their particular needs and preferences.

Above all, it’s important to remember that life in a community is just that – a chance to be part of a community. With an open mind and a positive attitude, you’ll find yourself enjoying an exciting new chapter of your life.