Making the transition into an assisted living facility can be difficult and emotional. You can help your loved one adjust and make the transition smoother by seeking advice and resources from trusted experts. With some guidance, you can help your loved one see and experience the many benefits of moving into assisted living. Continue reading for helpful tips on easing their transition to assisted living. 

Start Having Conversations About Assisted Living Early

It’s best to start talking about transitioning into an assisted living facility as early as possible. This will give your loved one time to ask questions, voice their concerns, and adjust to the idea of leaving their home. By talking with your loved one in advance, you will provide them the opportunity to be a part of the decision-making process.

Make an Appointment with an Expert to Discuss Concerns

You want your loved one to feel comfortable when transitioning into an assisted living facility. Scheduling an appointment with an expert can make the conversation easier to navigate. Take a look at local resources in your area, and consider making an appointment with an expert near you to help you discuss assisted living with your loved one. Here’s a list of experts that could help you with this conversation:

• Social worker
• Primary care physician or medical specialist
• Therapist or counselor
• Spiritual advisor
• Psychiatrist

Create a Schedule or Timeline for Their Move

Creating a schedule or timeline for your loved one’s move into an assisted living facility will help them prepare. It may also give them a sense of control over the process. Create a checklist of important tasks to complete before the move and add key dates to a shared calendar. Work closely with your loved one to help them overcome moving-related challenges like packing and sorting through their belongings. 

Schedule a Tour at Twin Town Villa!

If your loved one is ready to make the transition into an assisted living facility in Minnesota, schedule a tour with us at Twin Town Villa. We offer assisted living apartments, memory care, care suites, and a rich, vibrant senior community lifestyle. Contact us online to schedule a tour of the community or call us at (218) 643-9542 with questions. 

As your loved one ages, they are at a higher risk of falling, especially if they live alone. Every year, 3 million seniors are treated for fall injuries in emergency departments across the country. A fall injury increases the risk of other health problems, injuries, and mental and physical health complications. Continue reading to learn more about the dangers of senior falls and expert fall prevention tips.

Dangers of Senior Falls

A fall can cause serious injury to seniors. They are more likely to experience broken bones and fractures, and they have a harder time healing from broken bones. If your senior loved one needs to undergo surgery for a broken bone, they are at a higher risk of post-surgical complications. Fall injuries can also affect their physical, mental, and emotional health and may lead to depression, anxiety, and isolation.

Why Falls Are More Common in Seniors

A senior experiences a fall every second of every day, and falls are the most common cause of injury and death in people over the age of 65. There are many factors that increase a senior’s risk of a fall: loss of muscle mass, poor nutrition, cognitive decline, mobility problems, illness, side effects from medication, failing eyesight, obstacles in the home, and more. Seniors are also much more likely to develop certain health problems like low blood pressure, vision and hearing loss, and diabetes, all of which can increase their risk of a fall. 

Fall Prevention Tips

If your senior loved one lives alone, they are at an even higher risk of fall-related injuries. Luckily, you can take some preventive measures to reduce their risk at home. Here are our fall prevention tips for seniors:

• Have an expert assess your loved one’s home for health and safety issues, including tripping hazards.
• Install railings, grab bars, and other safety features in their home.
• Improve the lighting inside and outside of the home.
• Remove any obstacles that could cause your loved one to trip and fall.
• Hire a home health aide to keep them safe when you aren’t there.
• Talk to your loved one’s doctor about possible side effects from medication or health issues that could increase their risk of a fall.
• Encourage your loved one to stay active to improve their balance and muscle mass.
• Get them an assistive device like a cane or walker if they have mobility issues. 

Explore Our Senior Care Services!

If your senior loved one is at risk of a fall and you think it’s time for them to transition into an assisted living or memory care facility, contact our team at Twin Town Villa. To learn more, contact us to schedule a tour of the community or call us at (218) 643-9542 with questions.

As the winter months settle in, the colder temperatures and darker days can sometimes amplify feelings of loneliness, especially for our elderly loved ones. It’s crucial to prioritize their emotional well-being and create opportunities for connection during this season. Here are some heartwarming ways you can focus on connecting with your elderly loved ones this winter:

Regular Video Calls

Technology can bridge the gap when physical visits may be challenging. Schedule regular video calls to catch up, share stories, and maintain a visual connection. Seeing familiar faces can bring immense joy and comfort.

Create a Virtual Book Club

Reading is a wonderful solitary activity, but discussing a book can enhance the experience. Start a virtual book club with family members and friends, providing a platform for shared experiences and lively conversations.

Send Letters and Cards

Take the time to write heartfelt letters or send cards via mail. The tangible nature of a letter or card can be a cherished reminder of your love and thoughtful sentiments.

Plan Scheduled Visits

If possible, plan safe and socially distanced in-person visits. Scheduled visits will allow your family member to know when you will be visiting next. Whether it’s a walk in the park, sitting on the porch, or sharing a cup of tea, these small moments can make a significant impact on reducing feelings of isolation.

Create Photo Albums

Compile photo albums or scrapbooks with them that celebrate their life’s journey. Reminiscing about cherished memories can be a heartwarming and emotionally fulfilling activity.

Connect With Your Loved Ones at Twin Town Villa

At Twin Town Villa, our residents enjoy a range of engaging activities, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all. By fostering connection with your elderly loved ones and finding creative ways to share moments, you contribute to a sense of belonging and joy during the winter season.

To learn more about how Twin Town Villa can assist you and your family with specialized care, including assisted care or memory care, connect with us today. Schedule a tour of our community or call us at 218.643.9542 with any questions. We look forward to helping you create meaningful connections with your elderly loved ones.