Over 1,000,000 Americans reside in assisted living, and more opt for assisted living facilities each year. But choosing to send your loved one to an assisted living in Los Angeles doesn’t come without fears, worries, and anxiety – for your loved one and yourself.
There’s no getting around the fact that transitioning to assisted living is hard, but with the proper steps, you can ease the transition and make it easier for the whole family.
This guide will share how to help your loved one adjust smoothly to their Los Angeles senior living facility.
1. Acknowledge Feelings
The first step is to acknowledge their feelings. It’s understandable that they may be feeling scared, worried, or uncomfortable. Transitioning to assisted living is a big step in one’s life and is commonly met with an influx of emotions. Start by acknowledging all feelings – good and bad. This will allow your loved one to feel heard, and you can discuss steps to feel better about the situation.
2. Personalize Their New Space
You want your loved one’s assisted living in Los Angeles to feel like home. That said, it’s essential to make their new Los Angeles senior living space feel as comfortable as possible.
Some of the best things to pack for the new place include:
- Personal Items That Remind Them of Home/Family: Grab a few favorite family photos and comfort items from home, such as a fuzzy and warm blanket or a favorite decoration. Try to bring as many meaningful items as possible, as this will help the transition.
- Must-Have Items: Don’t forget the necessities! Toothbrushes, toothpaste, hair care, and anything else your loved one needs to feel themselves in their new home away from home. Don’t forget items that are crucial to their safety, such as a walker or hearing aids.
- Clothing for Los Angeles: Whether your loved one is a long-time resident of LA or coming to Southern California for the first time, it’s important to pack proper clothing. Thankfully, Los Angeles doesn’t get too cold, but packing some warmer clothing for cooler evenings is ideal.
- Entertainment and Hobbies: The last thing you want is for your loved one to get bored. And while many Los Angeles senior living communities, including Commonwealth Royale, have a wide range of activities to occupy our residents, they have downtime to do as they please. Bring along their favorites, whether it’s crossword puzzles, knitting, or a radio.
3. Build Relationships with Staff and Neighbors
Moving to assisted living in Los Angeles isn’t just about going into an entirely new space – it’s about being surrounded by people they essentially don’t know, which can be quite frightening.
Now that their space is personal and homey, it’s time to start the next step in transitioning to assisted living: building relationships with staff and neighbors.
Take your loved one around the senior assisted living facility in Los Angeles to meet the employees and residents of the building. Encourage them to sign up for activities that will help them make new friends, such as an art or exercise class, depending on their personal preferences.
4. Be Positive
Transitioning to assisted living isn’t always easy – in fact, it’s typically met with some challenges, especially when it comes to emotions. However, remaining positive at all times can help ease the transition.
Avoid negative talk and look for the good in everything. For example, if they’re worried about not feeling comfortable in their new home, switch to the positives: they get to personalize their space however they like, meet some great new friends, and explore fun activities they may not have been able to do in the past.
5. Spend Quality Time Together to Strengthen the Transition
One of the most meaningful ways to support a loved one during their first weeks in assisted living is simply by being present. Reassure them that moving into an assisted living community in Los Angeles isn’t the end of family connection, rather it’s a new chapter you’ll navigate together. Consistent communication and intentional time spent together can dramatically ease anxiety and help them feel grounded in their new surroundings.
Start by creating a communication plan that works for both of you. Whether it’s scheduled phone calls, video chats, or regular in-person visits, predictability builds comfort. Even short check-ins can provide a sense of security and help your loved one feel valued and supported.
When visiting, make the experience enjoyable. Explore local spots in Los Angeles, try a new café, enjoy a relaxing stroll at a nearby park, or plan a small outing to places like the Griffith Observatory or a favorite neighborhood market. These shared experiences remind them that their world is still full of things to look forward to.
Develop a visitation routine, especially in the early weeks. A clear schedule helps combat feelings of loneliness or abandonment and gives your loved one something positive to anticipate. Routine also helps them settle into their new environment with confidence and stability.
Lastly, be intentional about celebrating milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or even small personal achievements. These moments reinforce family bonds and bring joy during a time of adjustment. Knowing that they will still share these special days with the people they love can make their new assisted living community feel much more like home.
Make the Transition to Assisted Living in Los Angeles a Positive New Chapter
Transitioning to assisted living is one of the most meaningful life changes a family can navigate, and while it comes with emotional challenges, it also opens the door to safety, support, connection, and a better quality of life for your loved one. With the right approach, those first 90 days can shift from overwhelming to empowering.
By acknowledging their emotions, making their new space feel personal, encouraging community involvement, staying positive, and prioritizing meaningful time together, you’re giving your loved one the reassurance they need to feel safe, valued, and at home. These steps help ease worry, reduce stress, and foster a sense of belonging so they can truly settle in and enjoy everything their new environment has to offer.
At Commonwealth Royale Senior Living, we take that same supportive approach with every resident who walks through our doors. Our assisted living community in Los Angeles blends compassionate care with enriching daily activities, comfortable accommodations, and a warm, family-like atmosphere. From thoughtfully designed rooms and on-site wellness programs to social activities and personalized support, we make your loved one’s comfort, dignity, and happiness our top priority.
If you’re ready to help your loved one begin this new chapter with confidence, and want a community that treats them like family, we’re here for you.
Call (213) 382-6381 today to schedule a tour or speak with our care team or visit www.ComRoy.com to explore our amenities, view floor plans, and learn more about life at Commonwealth Royale.
Let us help your loved one thrive in a supportive, uplifting, and truly exceptional assisted living community in Los Angeles. Their next chapter can be brighter than ever and it starts with the right place to call home.
