Moving a loved one to a care home can be a difficult, emotional process, but you know that no matter what, you are doing the right thing for them and it’s in their best interests. While we’d all like to see our loved ones live at home, doing their own things forever, sometimes it’s just not possible due to deteriorating health and increasing needs.
Families don’t always have the medical know-how, or the time, to provide the care their loved ones need. Which is where a care home comes in. A good care home will not only provide personalised care to your loved one, but they will also focus on improving their overall quality of life and promoting their independence, so they can live their life to the fullest.
Still, moving to a care home can be a distressing experience for all. So, here are some tips for a smoother transition.
Choose the Right Care Home
The right care home will support you and your loved one through the process and help make everything easier. From employees who are always there to talk to you when you need, to lovely settings that your loved one actually enjoys being in, the whole experience of moving to a care home can be quite positive when you choose the right one. So, don’t rush the process and look around until you find one that both of you are content with. Think about the location, the services offered, and the kind of activities that are on the calendar. Book a visit to look at the rooms and communal areas, and chat with other residents and their family members. An engaging, social space for residents where they feel at home and are able to take part in the activities they enjoy is crucial for their wellbeing and quality of life. A great example if you need help on where to start your search is Baily House Care Home in Mansfield.
Take Plenty of Time to Prepare
Even if you’ve found and chosen the perfect care home, you and your loved one may be in no rush to move in. It might take a while for your loved one to get used to the idea of moving into a care home, especially if they have been in their own home for several years. We’re all prone to settling and getting comfortable in our homes, and the longer you’ve lived somewhere, the harder a change can be.
So, give yourself as much time as you can for packing. Chances are, you’ll need a good clear-out as care home resident rooms are probably much smaller than the accommodation your loved one is used to. You should also make sure that any relevant parties are notified, such as your relative’s doctor or any transport services they use.
Settling In
After the move, there are several things you can do to help your relative settle in. Even if they’re in an amazing care home and having a great time, simply being in a new environment can be stressful. Seeing a familiar face can help, so try to visit as often as possible. Keep in touch with the staff, too – at any good care home, they’ll be more than happy to update you on how your loved one is doing.
Moving a relative into a care home might be in their best interests, but it’s not always easy. Finding the right home and giving yourself and your loved one plenty of time for the process is key.