Whenever we find ourselves in an unfamiliar place, we are left with many questions: Where am I going? What will I need to know? Who will explain things to me? How will I cope with this?

Consider the feelings of a senior adult who, due to increased care needs, requires relocation to a senior living community. He or she may have had recent health issues, lost a spouse, or be experiencing general discomfort since all that was familiar, comforting and predictable is changing or being taken away.

Relocation Stress Syndrome

The difficulties some seniors experience in this situation is called relocation stress syndrome (RSS). The syndrome is listed as an official nursing diagnosis by the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association.

Symptoms include major depression, anxiety and/or confusion. Changes in eating and sleeping habits also can take place.

Seniors with a history of depression, anxiety, pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia and other health disorders could be more prone to RSS. In addition, people with limited mobility, living alone and widows appear to be at increased risk.

RSS symptoms can show up as:

  • Anger
  • Apprehension
  • Withdrawal from social activities
  • Insecurity
  • Body aches
  • Falls
  • Stomach problems
  • Weight change
  • Lack of trust in others

Unfortunately, the symptoms of relocation stress syndrome and dementia can overlap and result in a misdiagnosis. In fact, RSS itself can even lead to cognitive decline. If family members suspect the existence of RSS, a therapist should be contacted.

Tips for Lessening Relocation Stress Syndrome

Prior to the move to a senior living community, families can help lessen the trauma of the move. For example:

Don’t rush. Unless there is a crisis that requires a quick transition, give the senior time to adjust.

Emphasize good health practices. Neglecting a healthy diet and exercise due to stress can actually make the effects of the stress even worse.

Help the senior with downsizing and determining which items can fit in a new living space and which cannot be taken.

The process should continue at the senior living community. For example:

The staff may have been trained to recognize symptoms of relocation stress syndrome and know how to help new residents and their families lessen the challenges of RSS. Family members who believe their loved one may be susceptible to RSS should consult the staff at the community to see what can be done to lessen its effects.

Because part of the uncertainty for a senior could be his or her sense that they have lost control of their life, try to enable the senior to make their own decisions. For example: organizing his or her apartment, picking out what to wear, and choosing what to eat. Make the apartment where the senior is living look familiar with family photos, favorite furniture, knick-knacks or other cherished items from the senior’s home.

Privacy may be an issue. After all, the senior who has lived in a private home for many years may be suddenly sharing space and participating in activities with people they do not know. This is one reason staff members encourage residents to establish new friendships and be involved in community events. Family members can work with staff in encouraging socialization. Many senior living communities also have groups who welcome new residents.

Abandonment is a significant fear for seniors experiencing relocation stress syndrome. Family members and friends should continue to visit as frequently as they feel will benefit their loved one.

Relocation stress syndrome typically subsides in a few months, and the first six to eight weeks is often the most intense time of adjustment. The temptation for family members to quickly move a senior who is dealing with RSS to a different community should be avoided as the relocation may just add more stress to the senior.

Overcoming this fear requires a group effort on the part of the senior, family members, friends and professional staff.

For more helpful health tips, visit Bethesda’s health & wellness blog.

Whether in independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, Bethesda offers the right amenities, services, programming, and staff to make every day full of purpose. See for yourself and tour our independent living communities, including Bethesda Barclay House – Clayton, Bethesda Gardens – Kirkwood, Bethesda Orchard – Webster Groves, Bethesda Terrace – South County, Village North Retirement Community – Florissant, and The Oaks at Bethesda Villas – Kirkwood/Webster.
Health & Wellness
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