9 Common Fears of Seniors Moving into an Assisted Living Facility

When a senior citizen considers moving to an assisted living facility, it is a decision that comes with many emotions and questions. Anxiety and concerns are quite common, but managing these feelings can help make this major life transition easier for seniors and their families.

Below are some of the most commonly experienced fears, and also how you can help your senior loved one process the positives of deciding to move to an assisted living facility.

1. Loss of Independence

Freedom is one of the most valued aspects of life, and some older adults and seniors may feel that they would lose their freedom when they move to an assisted living facility. Nevertheless, the amenities offered by these communities, such as wellness activities, are meant to improve the independence of the residents. Now, amenities like movie nights, educational seminars, cookouts, and even mixers are easily accessible within the community, allowing residents to partake in more social activities than ever before.

Caregivers assist residents when necessary yet give them the freedom to make personal decisions about their lives including their schedules, activities and even food choice. This kind of environment allows them to retain some control and independence while also enjoying the assistance from caregivers with tasks they struggle to complete on their own.

2. Fear of Isolation

The idea of moving out of a familiar house can be a source of anxiety due to the fear of being alone. Seniors might feel like when they move to an assisted living facility, they won’t enjoy the social interactions they’re used to, or perhaps be confined to their room most of the time. However, the feeling of being part of a community and having a network of support is a priority for assisted living facilities, and having multiple opportunities and options to socialize is one of the many benefits residents can enjoy.

Assisted living communities usually have numerous social programs and services that may include group trips, classes, and seminars, dining areas and living rooms where residents can socialize. Such settings not only assist in keeping seniors active and social but also assist in establishing new relationships.

3. Concerns About Cost

Another big concern around moving to an assisted living facility is the monetary consideration that comes with it. These facilities differ in price depending on the type of services included, the geographical region and accommodation options offered.

Almost every community has a list of fees with a breakdown of what is included and which services are at an additional fee, which makes it easier for families to prepare for expenses. Also, there are various options for funding these costs, for instance, veterans’ benefits, LTC insurance, and sometimes Medicaid based on the State.

4. Fear of Inadequate Care

Another recurrent issue is the adequacy and quality of care. Assisted living facilities are ideal for those individuals who require more daily support and assistance. Assisted living facilities have caregivers who are trained in providing care that is individualized according to the residents’ requirements. The members of staff are usually qualified and trained to handle special care needs of the elderly.

In addition, they typically conduct assessments from time to time in order to ensure that the care plans are up to date with the needs of the residents, thus giving families confidence that their loved ones are well cared for.

5. Apprehension of the Loss of Comforts of Home

Moving to a new environment can be a major challenge. To address this, there are several assisted living homes that allow residents to bring their belongings or furniture to their new homes to give them a sense of comfort.

Furthermore, these communities are also developed with a view of offering the residents comfort of being in their homes by having a common area, private rooms and even gardens for the residents.

6. Worry About Medical Emergencies

The anxiety of not being able to obtain medical assistance as soon as possible in cases of emergencies is a real concern for the elderly and their relatives. However, most assisted living facilities have medical alert systems in place, and round-the-clock care by knowledgeable staff members. Nurses on the premises, as well as cooperation with local hospitals, guarantee that residents’ health issues will be addressed without delay.

7. Fear of the Unknown

Relocating to a new place can be quite a challenge. However, to help residents adapt to these changes, facilities offer extensive orientation programs which include details on the daily schedule, activities, services offered in the community, and evacuation drills. This introduction also helps in reducing the anxiety that follows the unfamiliar and thus facilitates the process of the resident adjusting to the new environment.

8. Fear of Becoming a Problem to Others

Some seniors fear that if they require increased daily care and assistance, they will become a burden to their families. This concern is addressed by assisted living centers as they offer professional, round-the-clock care, which in turn helps the families to have some relief from the daily responsibilities of caring for their loved ones. This switch enables families to have peace of mind that their loved one is cared for, and a chance to spend quality time with their loved ones as they do not have to worry about day-to-day care routines.

9. The Fear of the Loss of Quality of Life

Lastly, the fear of poor quality of life is one of the main concerns that seniors have. But assisted living facilities aim to offer the quality of life that is not only secure, but productive as well. There are different programs that are designed to improve the quality of life of every individual residing in the community, dependent on their level of care and mobility, through fitness exercises, cultural outings, and other developmental programs. These activities have been planned to ensure that the residents are not only active but also feel connected to the world around them.

Easing the Concerns of Loved Ones Moving to an Assisted Living Facility

It is important to try to understand the most frequent concerns that the elderly person may have and try to put measures in place to ensure that the move to an assisted living home is as smooth as possible.

Here, at Arbor Trace Memory Care Center London, Ontario, we know that it is crucial to address any concerns from potential residents or their loved ones. We invite any potential residents to take a tour of our facility and experience how our community provides a nurturing, stimulating and caring atmosphere that meets the needs of our residents firsthand. Get in touch to schedule a tour of our Arbor Trace assisted living facility.