Helping Mom or Dad Downsize to an Assisted Living Community

If your mom or dad has reached the time in their life where they need help with daily personal care activities, moving into an assisted living community is the perfect solution. You will have peace of mind knowing their needs are being met and they are safe and comfortable. However, as much of the task of helping them move will likely fall on your shoulders, you have probably begun to realize that paring back a lifetime’s worth of possessions is a bit overwhelming. Not to worry, there are many good books on the topic as well as useful tips on the Internet.

Organizing experts caution that the job can be complicated and fraught with emotion because as you see a pile of stuff to sort through and toss; your parents see treasures and memories. Begin by creating a list of things your parents will need at their new place (keep in mind the size) and adding in the treasured items and personal belongings they want to keep. If something is hard for them to part with, help them to think of a family member or friend they would like to give it to. Also, remind them if they sell the item, they can use the money toward something better suited for their new home such as a smaller couch or coffee table.

Now the experts recommend going from room to room and start sorting by keeping, tossing, or donating piles. In addition, rather than always asking your parents what they want to keep or get rid of, pare down the selection, and then ask them yes or no questions. Presorting items also helps to avoid keeping lots of multiple items.

By measuring the size of your parent’s new suite, you can create a floor plan to realistically show how well their furnishings will fit. Include the amount of cupboards and storage space they will have to help you know how much is too much. Remember you do not want the new place to be so crowded that they can barely move safely about.

Keep in mind that if your parent is moving into a community such as MorningStar at River Oaks, you will be treated to meals created by our Executive Chef served in our full-service dining room. Also, for your safety, our well-designed suites come equipped with a handicap-accessible bathroom and emergency call system. Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar’s assisted living in Houston.

MorningStar at River Oaks’ foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest assisted living Houston offers. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

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