Helping a loved one move into a care home is a significant step, marking a new phase in their life journey. Naturally, your parent or friend may experience a mix of emotions – excitement, perhaps a little apprehension, and a whole lot of change.
The Lead-Up: Preparing for Their Move
The key to a less stressful transition is preparation. Think of it like planning a big trip – the more organised you are, the smoother the experience will be for everyone involved.
Choosing the Right Home:
This is arguably the most important step. Visit a few different care homes (and if they are able, then do bring along your loved one too), ask plenty of questions, and get a feel for the atmosphere. Consider the location (how easy will it be to visit), what amenities do they have and are these right for their needs, what is the staff-to-resident ratio (a helpful indicator of the quality of a care), and, of course, the budget. Care fees can add up if your loved one stays in a home for a number of years, so is the budget right for what you are looking for.
Decluttering and Packing
This can feel overwhelming but breaking it down into smaller tasks helps. Start early and declutter as you go. Think about what your loved one truly needs and what they cherish. Donating or selling unwanted items can be a great way to give them a second life.
Sharing the News
Keep family and friends informed about the move. Share your loved one’s excitement (and any concerns) with them. Their support is invaluable.
Personalising Their Space
Once you’ve chosen the new home, visit their room and start thinking about making it their own. Bring familiar photos, favourite books, a cozy blanket – anything that makes them feel comfortable and at home.
Moving day arrives, and it’s time to embrace this new chapter. Here are some tips for helping your loved one settle in:
Encourage Involvement
Encourage them to participate in the wide range of activities and social events offered if they are able to. It’s a fantastic way to meet new people, build connections and settle into their new home.
Stay Connected
Just because they’ve moved doesn’t mean they have to lose touch with family and friends. Keep in contact through phone calls, video chats, and visits. These connections are so important.
Explore New Interests
Encourage them to use this opportunity to explore new hobbies and rediscover old ones. Many care homes offer art classes, music therapy, gardening, book clubs, gentle exercise, interesting talks and more.
Remind them to ask for Help
The staff at the care home are here to support each resident. Encourage your loved one to ask for help with anything they need, this might take some getting used to if they have been quite independent up till now.
Building Connections
Helping them to make new friends. Moving to a new community can be a daunting experience, but it’s also a chance to make new friends. Social interaction can really help to prolong people’s mental state.
Encourage Openness
Encourage them to smile, say hello, and strike up conversations with fellow residents.
Support Participation
Suggest they join activities that align with their interests. It’s a great way to meet people who share similar passions.
Share Their Stories
Encourage them to share their life experiences to connect with others on a deeper level. Our activities team will have sessions with each resident, to learn about their personal history and to connect with them on a one-to-one basis.
Respect Personal Space
Remind them to be mindful of others’ boundaries and personal space. The residents live in the Care Home and it is important to be able to respect each other’s space.
Embracing the Emotional Journey
Moving to a care home is a big emotional adjustment. It’s okay for your loved one to feel a range of emotions, from sadness and anxiety to excitement and hope.
Acknowledge Their Feelings
Encourage them not to suppress their emotions. Allow them to feel whatever they’re feeling and find staff and other residents that they feel comfortable expressing this with.
Talk to Someone
Suggest that they share their thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist.
Be Patient
Remind them that it takes time to adjust to a new environment. Encourage them to be patient with themselves and allow the time needed to settle in.
A Typical Day (and How It Can Be Theirs)
While every day is different, a general routine can provide structure and comfort. Mornings might involve personal care and breakfast, followed by activities, social events, or quiet time.
Lunch will typically be served in the dining room for those that are able, and this is always a highlight of the day, with hearty, nutritious meals and a chance to interact with other residents.
Afternoons could include more activities, visits from loved ones, or simply relaxing. Evenings often involve a relaxed dinner and perhaps some entertainment. The beauty of care home life is that it can be tailored to a person’s individual needs and preferences.
Moving to a care home is not the end of a chapter; it’s the beginning of a new one. It’s a chance for your loved one to embrace new experiences, build new connections, and continue to live a fulfilling life. With a little preparation and a positive attitude, you can help make this transition a smooth and rewarding one.