The holiday season is a time for family, traditions, and celebrating the moments that matter most.
But if you’re an older adult facing the decision to move into a senior living community, such as assisted living, the thought of making that change during the holidays can feel overwhelming.
You may worry about losing your independence or disrupting long-held traditions. Yet, this season could be the perfect opportunity to embrace a new chapter in your life—one that enhances your wellbeing and offers the support you need to live better!
At The Birches, it’s our mission to provide comprehensive, personalized care to all our residents. Our locally owned and operated assisted living and memory care community in Clarendon Hills is the only Certified Montessori Inspired Lifestyle senior living community in Illinois. This means we’re here to support you with living your best life, all year round!
If you’re contemplating a transition into assisted living around the holidays, this change can offer a lot of upsides. Discover why a proactive move into assisted living may be the best option for your quality of life.
Four reasons to embrace a move to assisted living during the holidays
1. Change doesn’t mean losing independence
As we get older, it's natural to feel hesitant about change. The idea of leaving a familiar home or routine can be daunting. But as they say: “Home is where the heart is.” This means you can create ‘home’ anywhere you feel ‘at home.’
Choosing to join an assisted living community doesn’t mean giving up independence. It’s about choosing a safer, more comfortable lifestyle where you have the support you need, while still maintaining your dignity and autonomy.
With access to care when you need it, social activities, and new opportunities to engage with others or your greater community, you can enjoy life without the worry of managing everything alone.
The Birches is committed to uplifting and empowering the independence of all who call our community home. Here, you’ll discover freedom, flexibility, and the ability to make your own choices about how you want to spend your days. We take the time to get to know our assisted living residents on a deeper level, so we can understand your personality and cater to your preferences.
Learn more about our signature approach to assisted living.
In our Clarendon Hills assisted living community, you’ll discover your personalized balance between independence and support.
2. Face the unknown with confidence
It’s common to feel anxious about what the future holds, especially when it comes to a big transition like moving to assisted living.
But instead of waiting for the "perfect time" or for an emergency to occur, why not take control and explore your options now?
Visiting assisted living communities, meeting staff, touring with friends, and talking to others who’ve made the move can help ease your concerns and make the process feel less intimidating. You’ll be able to make a well-informed decision at your own pace, without the added stress of waiting for an urgent situation. Planning ahead allows you to make a thoughtful, positive choice about your future to suit the lifestyle you want!
If you need more information or resources to help you make your assisted living decision, The Birches team is here for you! Reach out to us directly for expert support and guidance, and visit our blog for a wealth of advice, insight, and tips for seniors and their loved ones.
3. Let go of guilt—New traditions can be just as meaningful
If you are pondering a move around the holidays, it’s normal to feel a bit sad about the idea of leaving your home or altering your holiday plans. But remember, moving to an assisted living community doesn’t mean leaving behind your favorite traditions. In fact, many assisted living communities host their own holiday events, allowing you to celebrate in a way that’s both safe and joyful without having to do the dishes!
Embracing this change doesn’t mean losing the past—it means opening the door to new traditions and experiences that can enrich your life and relationships. And the most important thing for many of us during the holidays is to be together with loved ones. Be assured that togetherness doesn’t change due to a move to a community.
4. The holidays can still be bright
The holidays don’t have to be filled with stress or uncertainty. When you choose an assisted living community, you’re ensuring you have access to the support and social engagement you deserve while living the life you want!
This season can still be filled with laughter, connection, and warmth. In fact, you might find that this change brings new opportunities for you to engage with neighbors, volunteer to support those in need, and enjoy the holidays in a fresh, positive way. If you’ve been waiting to make a change for the sake of your health, safety, or happiness, there’s no better time than now.
Taking steps to move into an assisted living community is not about giving up; it’s about giving yourself the freedom to live better. You deserve to thrive at every stage of life. With the right support, you can continue to live a fulfilling, happy life—no matter your age or daily needs!
This holiday season, consider taking the first step toward a brighter, more confident future. Embrace the opportunity to live better today by considering a move to assisted living. It may be the change you need to live the life you truly want.
This article was created by Jacqueline Sander, the executive director & CEO of The Birches Assisted Living & Memory Care in Clarendon Hills. The Birches is proud to be the only Certified Montessori Inspired Lifestyle senior living community in Illinois.
For more information about assisted living, download your copy of Embracing Change: Smooth Transitions to Senior Living. This free guide provides expert guidance on transitioning into senior living. Contact us for personalized assistance and answers to your senior living questions.
