Making the Transition as Smooth as Possible
Emily Beckwith, Director of Harbor Memory Care, connects with residents.
Transitions are difficult, even when we know we are making a change for the better. We crave routines and stability. Stepping off the path we planned can feel uncomfortable, even if it leads to a better place.
Emily Beckwith is the Director of Harbor Memory Care at Bruceville Point in Elk Grove, California. She understands the challenges that residents and their families face when moving to a senior living community. Almost always, the move ends up being positive. But that doesn’t mean the journey is without a few bumps.
Emily shares what to expect as you or a loved one moves to a senior living community.
Small steps
Emily readily acknowledges that the transition is hard. She and her team at Bruceville Point work to support residents and their families through the process. She starts by breaking it down into smaller steps so it doesn’t seem so overwhelming.
“Try it. If you hate it, let’s talk and we’ll make some changes. It doesn’t have to feel like this big, permanent thing. It’s just a step,” Emily reminds residents.
Retain or regain autonomy
Many residents may feel a lack of control during the transition. Emily reminds them that the main goal of moving is to preserve a resident’s independence and autonomy. She and her team can provide care services, if helpful, so residents are free to pursue the life they envision.
“They all have choices. They all have autonomy. It just looks different for each person,” Emily says.
Engage with the world again
Some people may interpret the move as a change in identity. Especially if the move occurs as a result of losing a spouse or a medical change. At Bruceville Point, Emily focuses on helping residents find purpose and joy. She does this by understanding their interests and encouraging them to engage in the community, whether by joining friends for dinner or participating in a fitness class. Trips outside the community foster curiosity and learning.
Residents gather in the Bistro to share conversation.
Find a guide
For many, moving to senior living is charting a new path in an unfamiliar terrain. Fortunately, Emily and the team at Bruceville Point bring decades of experience to support residents and families through the transition. “It’s not like we have a magic wand and we can just fix problems. But we can be there with you through struggles,” Emily promises. In all interactions, we value transparency and partnership.
Perfect doesn’t exist. But things can get easier. Emily has seen it happen hundreds of times in her career. And ensuring residents and their families have more time to enjoy moments together with fewer worries brings Emily joy.
Our Counselors have guided hundreds of families through the transition to senior living. If you have questions or concerns, they are happy to help you navigate.
Thinking about a change? Learn more about our community in our FAQs Guide.
