After the move:

• Realize that Relocation Stress Syndrome (RSS) is real and common no matter how old you are.

• Understand that everyone is different and some people may show no signs where others may be affected for the first couple of days even months.

• Be aware of the signs of RSS such as anxiety, depression, disorientation, and exhaustion.  Keep in mind these can be exacerbated by dementia, mental impairment or poor physical health.

• Mental stress - overwhelming details, new phone numbers, canceling and ordering new services, cost issues.
• Emotional stress - leaving long time familiar home with lots of memories, anxiety about friends & family.  Feelings of loss.
• Physical stress - packing, lifting, sorting, cleaning.
  

• Be aware that you (the caregiver) may be feeling sad or guilty and this is normal.

• You can hire a home care aid to help your parent through the confusion of moving to the new place who can actually stay with them 24 hours a day for the first week or so.

• Encourage them to retain patterns from home, such as subscribing to the newspaper, having afternoon tea, or taking walks.

• Invite family and friends over to dinner in the private dining room of their "new home."

• Friends and family should take care to treat the senior the same way they did before.  Come to visit daily if that is what you did when they were home. Eat Sunday dinner with them if that routine.  The only thing that has changed is their address.

• There is usually a resident run 'welcome committee' that will help new residents to fit in and, well, feel welcome.  They will network to find people with similar interests to introduce them to.  They can also have meals with the new resident to get over the hurdle of "who is going to sit with me?" They can also suggest clubs or groups they may be interested in.

• Be sure to read welcome packets that will list important names and numbers as well as community 'rules.'

• Meet all the managers and know their role and how to get in touch with them.
  

• Get to know the resident program director.  This person knows everyone in the building and can help with introductions and encourage participation in activities.

• Visit often; bring grandchildren and pets when you can.

• Stay positive and remember why you and your loved on together made this decision.