Moving into a senior living community can be stressful to many older adults, increasing the risk of developing relocation stress syndrome. Besides, the unfortunate events that prompt the seniors to move into care facilities, such as injuries, medical diagnosis, or loss of a loved one, are stressful. Adjusting to a new environment can be tricky.
We can’t dispute that relocating to a long-term care facility is stressful. However, the transfer impact must not deteriorate the senior’s mental and physical health. Consider doing everything possible to prevent relocation stress syndrome (RSS). For example, you can involve a senior loved one in decision-making.
Relocation stress syndrome can quickly become a real issue for your elderly loved one and family. Here’s what to know about preventing it from happening: #assistedliving #caregivers #unlimitedcarecottages Share on XWhat is Relocation Stress Syndrome?
Also known as transfer trauma, relocation stress syndrome is a condition affecting older adults relocating to nursing homes. It can also occur when seniors move to a new home after traumatic events like losing a loved one, severe medical diagnosis, or violent encounters. Such stressors increase the risk of developing RSS if not handled well.
Symptoms to Look Out For
When an older adult is experiencing relocation stress syndrome, the condition presents itself in many ways. You need to identify the symptoms of relocation stress syndrome as your senior loved one moves from one environment to another.
The psychological symptoms to watch out for are anger, confusion, anxiety, depression, loneliness, insecurity, and dependency. The physical symptoms of RSS are headaches, body aches, sleep difficulty, stomach problems, and changes in eating habits.
Treatment of Relocation Stress
If you suspect that your senior loved one has relocation stress syndrome, let a therapist help them understand the underlying issues. Thankfully, some assisted living facilities have therapists to handle these hard situations. Please don’t force them to accept the changes. Instead, acknowledge their fears. Involve friends, family members, and caregivers to help them.
Providing a Happy Transition into Assisted Living
You now know the tips for preventing relocation stress syndrome when your senior loved one moves to an assisted living facility. Involve a therapist or family member to help the senior adjust to independent living without stress. Pick a facility that offers a high level of care, such as Unlimited Care Cottages.
Contact us today for senior-friendly assisted living services for your senior loved one.
