Prepare For The Move To An AFH

1. Have Honest Conversations About the Move

One of the first and most important steps is having open and honest conversations with your loved one about the move. It’s natural for them to have concerns or feel anxious about leaving their current home. They may feel uncertain about the change or worried about their independence.

Start by explaining why the move is necessary. Whether it’s because they need more assistance with daily tasks, medical care, or a safer living environment, it’s important to address the reasons in a calm and understanding manner. Make sure to listen to their thoughts and concerns as well. If possible, involve them in decision-making, so they feel empowered throughout the process.

You can also take your loved one to visit the adult family home before the move. Meeting the staff and seeing the home can help ease some anxiety by making the environment more familiar and welcoming. These discussions and visits can help your loved one feel more comfortable and prepared for the upcoming change.

2. Organize Important Documents and Medical Records

Before the move, make sure you have all the necessary documents organized. Adult family homes often require medical records, insurance information, and legal paperwork, such as power of attorney or living wills.

Start by gathering your loved one’s medical history, including information about medications, any recent surgeries, allergies, and any chronic conditions. Make sure the adult family home has access to this information so they can provide the best care from the moment your loved one moves in.

You’ll also want to organize personal identification documents, such as Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, or state IDs. These documents may be needed for legal purposes or to access certain services in the future. Having everything ready and in order will make the move go much more smoothly.

3. Pack Wisely and Bring Comforts from Home

When it comes to packing for the move, think about what your loved one will need on a day-to-day basis, but also consider bringing items that will help them feel at home. Adult family homes often provide basic furniture, like a bed and dresser, so focus on packing personal belongings that will make their space feel cozy and familiar.

Start with essential items like clothing, toiletries, medications, and any necessary medical equipment. Then, include personal items that have sentimental value or bring comfort. Family photos, favorite books, or a cherished blanket can make the new environment feel much more like home.

Encouraging your loved one to be involved in the packing process can also give them a sense of control during this major life change. Allowing them to choose what to bring will help them feel more connected to their new space and can reduce feelings of anxiety.

4. Set Up the New Space with Familiar Items

Once your loved one moves in, it’s important to help them settle into their new space. One of the best ways to do this is by arranging their room to feel as familiar and comfortable as possible. Decorate with items that hold special meaning, like framed family photos, a favorite painting, or personal keepsakes.

Try to replicate some of the layout or décor from their previous home if possible. For example, if they always had a specific chair near a window for reading, recreate that in the new room. Familiarity can help ease the transition and make the new environment feel more like a continuation of their life, rather than a big, unfamiliar change.

You can also ask the caregivers at the adult family home for suggestions on how to make the space feel comfortable. They might have ideas about the best ways to personalize the room while keeping it functional for daily care.

5. Be There for Emotional Support

Moving into an adult family home can bring up many emotions, both for your loved one and for you. They may feel uncertain about their new surroundings, worried about losing independence, or even sad about leaving behind their old home. It’s essential to be there for emotional support during this time.

Stay positive and reassuring, but also allow space for your loved one to express their feelings. Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous or upset, and remind them that you’re there to help them through the transition.

Regular visits during the first few weeks can provide extra reassurance. Spend time together, share meals, or participate in activities at the adult family home to help your loved one adjust. The presence of family and familiar faces can make a world of difference in helping them feel settled and secure in their new environment.

6. Communicate with Caregivers

Good communication with the caregivers and staff at the adult family home is key to a successful transition. Introduce yourself to the caregivers and establish open lines of communication. It’s important for both you and your loved one to feel confident in the care they’ll be receiving.

Share any specific preferences or routines your loved one has, such as how they like to take their medications or their favorite times to take a nap. This helps the caregivers provide personalized care that feels comfortable for your loved one.

Additionally, stay in touch with the caregivers after the move to check on how your loved one is adjusting. If any concerns or questions come up, you’ll want to address them early on to ensure your loved one feels fully supported in their new home.

7. Allow Time for Adjustment

It’s important to remember that the transition to an adult family home won’t happen overnight. Your loved one may need time to adjust to the new environment, routines, and relationships with caregivers and other residents.

Encourage patience and remind your loved one that it’s okay if it takes time to feel completely comfortable. Some people may adjust quickly, while others might need a few weeks or even months to feel fully settled.

Be supportive, visit often, and stay involved in their care. Over time, they’ll likely begin to feel more at home and start enjoying the benefits of living in a supportive, caring environment.

Is It Time To Have The Conversation?

Preparing for your loved one’s move to an adult family home requires careful planning, patience, and emotional support. By having honest conversations, organizing important documents, packing wisely, and staying involved throughout the transition, you can help make the process smoother and more comfortable for everyone involved. The goal is to ensure that your loved one feels safe, supported, and at home in their new environment, while also giving you peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.