Decisions have to be made regarding how elderly people should spend their ‘autumn’ days. Although this can be traumatic for both the family and the elderly, careful forethought and planning make for a smooth transition. http://www.bmhealthcare.com.au

1. Moving to a Retirement Home Should be Stress Free
Old age is a stage of life that millions of people experience. It is a natural process. Those who
reach retirement age often work for several years by performing part-time work or managing
their own businesses. However, there comes a time when decisions have to be made when
elderly people cannot take care of themselves any longer.
People, as young as 50, are sometimes placed in retirement homes that specialise in frail care
because of strokes or other debilitating ailments that incapacitate them. When mobility aids no
longer assist, choices, sometimes heartbreaking for a family, have to be made in the best
interests of an infirm person.
The most important issue is being able to find a retirement home that suits the needs of the
‘patient’. This word is used loosely, as some elderly people opt to live in a retirement home
although they don’t suffer from ill-health. Eventually though, old age catches up and frailty
becomes a hindrance. Nevertheless, modern retirement homes can be a blessing for the
elderly, especially if people are able to select a home long before they actually need to move.
Moving to a retirement home that is professionally managed is equivalent to an upmarket
hotel. It all depends on available funds and circumstances.
Seniors who have lived in their own homes for many years don’t have to feel daunted from the
transition. Long before the move they should make enquiries at a few retirement homes in
their neighbourhood. It is better if elderly people are able to select an environment that suits
their needs and where they feel that they can be happy.
The next step is to sort out all their possessions. This can also be a difficult time. However, by
performing this task long before the actual move can give the elderly a sense of being in
control. This is also where family members can assist by advising on which items should be
kept, donated or thrown away. This is the time when children should be perceptive of a
parent’s feelings. Cherished possessions that have a place in one’s own home might not be
acceptable in a retirement setting. Space for personal treasures is at a premium. Everything
now has to be stored in one room. This is a good reason why living quarters should be viewed
before moving.
As people age they will probably not be able to get around as well as they did just a few years
earlier. Most retirement homes provide mobility products. Nevertheless one should query
whether the cost of these products is included in the overall price or whether they are classed
as extras. A wheelchair can be an expensive item so it is better to assess the cost before it is
required.
Moving to a retirement home doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. However, it will be
less stressful if family give their support and visit their loved ones regularly. Eventually, it all
depends on each individual. People should continue with their hobbies or find new interests;
they will soon make new friends and form close relationships. Some elderly people even

2. develop love interests with another resident and remarry. Someone once remarked, “Do not
regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many”.
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