Moving to an assisted living community is a big change, and it’s normal to have a lot of feelings about it. You might feel relieved to leave behind the work of maintaining a house and yard, while also missing parts of the life you’re used to. That mix of emotions is completely understandable. Whether the move was your decision or made with family support, it can feel like a major shift. But it can also be the start of a new chapter with more help, more connection, and fewer daily worries. If health needs played a role, this change can bring added comfort and peace of mind for you and the people who care about you.
It helps to take things one day at a time. The first few weeks are busy as you meet staff, neighbors, and caregivers and start learning how things work. You’ll get used to new routines like mealtimes, transportation to appointments, and activities happening in the community. Before long, those routines start to feel familiar, and the new faces become friendly ones. With a little time, your new surroundings can begin to feel like home.
Here is what to expect during the first 90 days as a new assisted living resident:
Days 1-30:
As you’re busy meeting new people and connecting names with faces, you can also arrange and decorate your apartment to suit your tastes. If you’ve brought some of your favorite items from your former home, integrate them into the décor. Invite your family to help personalize your space.
As you establish your new routine, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re having trouble adjusting. You’re going through a significant life change, and it’s natural and healthy to feel a roller coaster of emotions. You miss your former home, but you’re so happy when maintenance staff shows up to fix a leaky faucet; you didn’t have to call (and pay for) a plumber. You can enjoy a cup of tea in your air-conditioned apartment and watch somebody else mow the lawn. The friendly next-door neighbor invites you to sit with her at lunch, and you discover how much you have in common. Be gentle with yourself and practice self-care as you adjust to your new surroundings.
Days 31-60:
During the second month, you’re getting your bearings. You’ve become familiar with the territory and explored available amenities. Maybe it’s time to take a class or attend an event. This part is easier for more outgoing personalities. If you’re the introverted, reserved type, take baby steps. Sit in on a musical performance or attend a fitness class.
This is also the time when you’ll start building social connections. You probably know your nearby neighbors by now. Join them in an activity, such as going for a short walk around the property on a sunny day. And you’re also developing rapport with the staff and your caregivers. Everything is starting to fall into place.
Days 61-90:
You’re feeling much more established and secure. Your apartment is finally feeling like home, and you’ve settled into a comfortable routine. You have the “lay of the land,” and are growing more confident by the day. Now that you know that everything is going to be OK, you can relax and enjoy all of the comforts and amenities available to you. You don’t have to worry about maintenance and yard work. You can sit by the window in a common area with your neighbors, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa, and watch snow fall, knowing that you won’t have to get out in the cold and shovel it. Perhaps the chef is serving that dessert you love for the evening menu. Afterwards, you’re going to watch a movie in the in-house theatre.
After 90 days, you can catch your breath and wholly lean into the experience. These feelings of calm and relief are not fleeting; you can relax and enjoy your new life.
Explore Assisted Living the Kingsbury Way
If you are ready to make the transition to assisted living, consider Kingsbury. We offer assisted living apartments where residents are treated like royalty by our skilled, understanding staff. Our communities were built by Ohioans for Ohioans, and we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality of care and resident experience. To learn more about assisted living at Kingsbury, please contact our leasing office to schedule a tour.