It is a familiar sight to see older adults being apprehensive about their move to a senior care facility in Reading, PA. This is because they feel like they are leaving the ones they love behind, and it may take a while before they see each other again. The move is also filled with questions. “Will it be worth it?” “Will I be happy where I will be?” “Will I be welcomed with a smile?” “Will it feel like home?”
They definitely want to hear a “yes” for all these questions. Taking some baby steps is crucial to welcoming the new environment so they can get used to it, and embrace it accordingly. As part of the team behind the transition, it is your responsibility to make them feel welcome where they should be right now. Here is how you can do that.
Welcome them with a Tour
This happens even before they transition to the senior living community. It is your duty to make sure that you show them the amenities included if they choose to stay with you. You must see to it that you explain each feature that comes with their choice of apartment. It is a good time to convince them to choose your community. Make things standout not just because you want to be recognized, but because you want your soon-to-be residents to see why you are the best choice they have.
Orient Them
Once they have already finalized their decision of making a move, you must take the responsibility to orient them. The previous tour was just an introduction. The post-move tour is where you should be ready to answer all their questions. There may be an ambassador from your team who takes charge of welcoming new residents. You may also have a handbook or map in handy. Use all these tools to orient them about what they will expect during their stay.
Fill their Homes
This is not just about filling their apartments with things that remind them of home. This is not about putting up the decors they requested to make them feel they are still in the same community they used to live in. It is more of welcoming them with a gift. You can have a fruit basket ready on their tables. You can also give them some treats like cookies, biscuits, coffee, or tea. You can even stock their fridge with a few staples like bread, eggs, and butter.
Welcome their Family as Well
Remember that one of the reasons why they are hesitant of the transfer at first is because they are leaving their families. You should see to it that you highlight the importance of their loved ones’ presence in their lives. You can only do that if you welcome their families as well. You can prepare lunch for them during the move-in day.
Help them Settle in the Community
Throwing a meet-and-greet party to familiarize themselves with the community is a good place to start. This is a perfect opportunity to let them know their neighbors as well. With this, allow them to invite their friends from outside too.
Once you have considered all of these recommendations, it will be easier to make your new residents feel at home in your senior living community. It takes effort, but it will be well worth it in the long run.
