Fill in the Blank – Senior Living Communities Edition: What to Expect When…

We all know the phrase: “What to Expect When …” There are many ways to fill in the blank for this sentence based on the season of life, milestone or maybe even a diagnosis. The “fill in the blank” you may be facing could be scary, practical, joyful or just downright confusing. Whether you are asking this question for yourself or for a loved one, it’s probably coming at a time of uncertainty or transition. In a quick-to-Google and AI-query world, there is almost too much information to address questions at a time you are already overwhelmed. That is why we hope to provide a little relief and share knowledge using our experience in guiding families and residents through evaluating senior living communities and the transition into a retirement community lifestyle.

What to Expect When … Researching Senior Living Communities Near Me

You will have a lot of options and searches will yield many results. Not all senior living communities are created equal, but there will be ones that feel “right” for you or your loved one. Understand the amenities, care offerings and therapies that may be included or available. Consider the type of apartment you or your loved one would like to call home. There will likely be different pricing structures based on levels of care and apartment style. In addition to online research, asking other community members about their experience, reading reviews and even meeting residents currently residing at the community of interest are other good ways to get a feel for a community.

What to Expect When … Touring Senior Living Communities

A tour is a first impression of what it would be like to be part of the community. It is a chance to meet residents, co-workers and maybe even campus leadership. Walking the halls and seeing the activities and spaces will give a glimpse into daily life and allow you to picture yourself or your loved one engaging in the activities, receiving care and eating the meals. Consider paying attention to the friendliness of the residents and co-workers, the cleanliness and even the safety and accessibility features. At Ecumenical, after the tour, our advisors sit down with the family and go over questions so come prepared with questions/concerns specific to your or your loved one’s individual needs. The good news – tours are not a once and done chance to get to know the senior living communities! We encourage families to come back as often as they’d like to see the campus, attend an event or activity and get comfortable and confident with the decision, in their own time.

What to Expect When … Moving In

This will be a big day—both physically and emotionally—for everyone involved. Senior living communities will help coordinate logistics or introduce families to Senior Move Managers and other contracted supports to help with the physical aspects of the move. Emotionally, our advisors are here to support that too. On move-in day, expect using most of the day to unpack and organize the apartment. At Ecumenical, members of the care team, campus leadership and the advisors will check in with the new resident and their family throughout the day and will help in any way they can. The focus of move-in day is to ensure the residents feel welcome in their new home. Ecumenical has a special Resident Ambassadors program in which a current resident is paired with a new move-in. The Ambassador will also greet the resident on the first day. Their role is to ensure the new neighbor knows where to go for meals, is included in events and activities and has a built-in buddy. Many of our Ambassadors have become fast-friends with their new neighbor – just like the Fab 4!

What to Expect When … Adjusting to Life in Senior Living Communities

It can take up to a month for residents to really feel like they understand the flow and routine of life in a senior living community. Resident emotions like loneliness or family emotions like guilt can be common during this transition. They are normal and unfortunately not fun; but they are also balanced by moments of excitement when the residents try something new or family members see their loved one thriving and enjoying a quality of life that they thought was not possible prior to the move. During this adjustment period, we guide residents and families to stay strong and patient. Planning frequent visits and check-ins is a good way for family members to maintain close relationships and also become involved in the senior living communities. While the Ambassador program supports residents during the transition, Ecumenical offers resources to families through support groups and other services that could help during this time.

What to Expect When … Care Needs Change

One of the things that makes senior living communities appealing is that it provides the opportunity to “age in place.” This gives residents peace of mind knowing that supports are there when needed and gives the family confidence that their loved one’s needs will be accommodated. Keeping an open line of communication between the family and the care team helps everyone monitor conditions or diagnosis so transitions can be made in a planned and organized way, hopefully mitigating stress for everyone involved. Ecumenical conducts annual care plan conferences with the resident and family to discuss current needs and wishes, unless additional support is needed before that time. In those circumstances, the care team will provide recommendations and a plan to review prior to a change is needed to be made.

Have other “fill in the blanks?”

No matter what stage of the senior living community transition you and your family find yourself in, it’s important to remember, you are not alone! Our advisors are eager to help you, ease your concerns and answer your questions. Contact us today to chat with an advisor or schedule a personalized tour. We’re here to help!