How to Prepare Your Loved One for Moving into a Board & Care Home

Making the decision to move a loved one into a board and care home can be one of the most difficult choices in life. Whether it’s due to health concerns, the need for more daily assistance, or simply the desire for a more comfortable living environment, it's important to approach the situation with sensitivity, care, and thoughtful planning. By properly preparing your loved one for this transition, you can help ease the process and make the move as smooth as possible for everyone involved.

Here are some practical steps to help prepare your loved one for the transition to a board and care home:

1. Start the Conversation Early

The first step in preparing your loved one is to have an open and honest conversation. It’s important to discuss the reasons for the move in a gentle way, while taking their feelings and concerns into account. Acknowledge the emotions they may be feeling—fear, sadness, or anxiety—and reassure them that this is a step toward improving their quality of life.

Try to include them in the decision-making process as much as possible. This might mean touring potential board and care homes together, asking for their input, and addressing any concerns they might have. The more involved they are in the process, the more empowered they will feel.

2. Visit the Board and Care Home Together

One of the most reassuring steps you can take is to visit the board and care home together. Touring the facility and meeting the staff will give your loved one a chance to become familiar with the environment. It will also allow you to ask important questions, such as:

• What is the daily routine like?

• What are the staff-to-resident ratios?

• Are meals provided, and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

• What types of activities and social events are offered?

Visiting beforehand can reduce uncertainty and make the new environment feel less intimidating when it’s time to move.

3. Discuss Their Personal Space and Comfort

Once your loved one is comfortable with the idea of moving, it’s time to think about their new personal space. Many board and care homes allow residents to bring their own belongings, such as furniture, photos, and keepsakes. Encourage your loved one to choose meaningful items to take with them so they can create a familiar and comforting space. This will help them feel more at home in their new environment.

Consider asking the home about their guidelines for personalizing rooms and what types of furniture are allowed. If possible, arrange their room to reflect their personality and preferences, whether that’s with a favorite chair, artwork, or family photos.

4. Prepare for the Emotional Adjustment

It’s natural for your loved one to experience feelings of loss when leaving their home, especially if they’ve lived there for many years. They may feel sadness, loneliness, or anxiety about the change. You can help alleviate these feelings by:

• Reassuring them that they will still be able to maintain connections with family and friends.

• Arranging regular visits to stay involved in their lives.

• Encouraging them to stay socially active and participate in community activities within the home.

• Helping them find familiar routines or hobbies to engage in once they’ve settled in.

Remember, the emotional adjustment may take time. Be patient and supportive as they navigate this transition.

5. Coordinate with the Care Team

Before moving in, it’s important to meet with the care team to discuss your loved one’s medical and personal needs. Make sure that the staff is aware of any health conditions, medications, or special care requirements. This will ensure that your loved one receives the right level of care from day one.

It’s also helpful to provide the care team with information about your loved one’s daily routines and preferences. This helps the staff provide care in a way that feels comfortable and familiar, which can make the adjustment easier.

6. Plan the Move Day Carefully

Moving day can be emotional, but with careful planning, it can go more smoothly. Here are a few tips to help:

• Make the move as stress-free as possible by hiring a professional moving company if needed.

• Keep the move to a manageable time frame, avoiding rushing or overwhelming your loved one.

• Ensure your loved one’s most essential items are packed and ready to go ahead of time, such as toiletries, clothing, and medications.

• If possible, arrange for a family member or close friend to be with your loved one during the move to offer emotional support.

7. Stay Positive and Supportive

The key to making this transition as smooth as possible is maintaining a positive attitude. While the move may be difficult, focusing on the benefits of the new living situation—such as increased socialization, personalized care, and a safer living environment—can help create a more positive outlook.

Regularly check in on your loved one to ensure they are adjusting well and continue to offer support as needed. Encourage them to keep a sense of independence by participating in activities, forming new friendships, and maintaining their hobbies.

Conclusion

Preparing a loved one for a move into a board and care home requires a thoughtful approach that takes their emotional, physical, and mental well-being into account. By including them in the process, visiting the facility together, and carefully planning the move, you can help make the transition smoother and more comfortable. With your support and understanding, your loved one can adjust to their new home with confidence and peace of mind. For more information and guidance visit aechomes.com.