Is your parent moving into a senior living center soon? A move into a senior living center can be an exciting time, but it can also be difficult. That's especially true if your parent has lived alone in their home for an extended period. While they may be grateful for the assistance in the senior living center, they may also be reluctant to leave their home and move into a new facility. The good news is there are things you and the rest of your family can do to make the transition easier for everyone. Below are a few tips to support your elderly parent as they move into senior living.

Make the new place feel like home. 

You can't fully recreate your parent's home, but there are steps you can take to make them feel more at home in the assisted living center. Bring some of their favorite items, including photos, blankets, and other items with sentimental value. If they have a favorite chair or other piece of furniture where they like to sit and relax, move that into their new home. You can even ask the community's chef to add your parent's favorite dish to the menu. That could be a nice treat and help them feel more comfortable.

Taper off your visits over time.

When your parent first moves into their new home, you and your other family members may want to visit a lot. You might even visit daily in the first week. Frequent visits are a good thing at first. However, you'll want to taper off your visits over time. That will give your parent the opportunity to immerse themselves in the new community and meet friends. Most senior living centers have social events and even trips to fun activities. Encourage your parent to participate in those events. You could even get a copy of the social calendar and intentionally not visit on days when there are activities.

Be patient.

There will be good days and bad days for your parent. That's to be expected. Many seniors take months to fully embrace their new home.  You can help your parent with the transition, but ultimately it is up to them to make new friends and find happiness in the senior living center. The important thing is to be patient and stay supportive, even when your parent is having a difficult day.

With your support, your parent will likely feel at home in no time. Contact a senior living center in your area to learn more.