Moving to a Care Home? Here’s How to Make the Transition Easy
Are you moving a loved one into a care home? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the process? You’re likely feeling emotional about the big change and worried about various issues, from packing and moving day to settling your relative into their new home. This article will guide you through the move for a smooth transition.
What can make the move to a residential care home smoother?
Moving at any time is stressful but can be particularly stressful later in life. Here are a few key things you can do to make it easier:
Find the Right Fit
Does your relative need specialist care? Are they more independent? Not all care homes are the same, so take the time to research and visit several. View our checklist for choosing the best care home for your loved one. Involve them in the decision helps them feel more in control during this unsettled time.
Plan and Prepare
Start organising the care home move well in advance. Pack essential items, sort through belongings together and communicate with the care home staff about any specific needs or preferences your loved one will need. Be sensitive to your loved one’s resistance to let go of items and take your time. This big change can be distressing if it happens too fast.
Create a Familiar Space
Try your best to make your loved one feel more at home by bringing personal items like photos and their favourite comfort items. Most care homes allow residents to bring their own furniture, so ensure this is delivered before or a few days after moving day.
Be There for Support
On moving day, make sure you’re there in person to support your family member. Being there to offer reassurance, help them settle in and introduce them to staff and other residents will make a stressful day much easier.
Encourage Participation
After the move, motivate your loved one to get involved in the care home’s community. Whether joining games like bingo or watching old films, feeling part of the community can help them adjust more quickly.
Some of the Challenges of Moving to a Care Home
Moving to a care home can bring emotions and challenges, both for your loved one and you. You must be aware of these hurdles so you can address them proactively and patiently:
Emotional adjustment
Leaving behind a familiar home and routine can be tough – especially in your later years. Your loved one might feel a sense of loss, anxiety or even fear about the changes ahead. Acknowledging these feelings and offering plenty of reassurance and support is important.
Fear of isolation
One common worry is being isolated or lonely in a new environment. Your loved one might be concerned about making new friends or fitting into a new social circle. Reassure your loved one that you will visit regularly and choose a care home that prioritises social engagement and stimulating activities to help ease this concern.
Resistance to change
It’s not unusual for someone to resist the move, especially if they didn’t initiate the decision. Your relative might struggle with losing their independence or worry about being a burden. Open conversations and involving them in decision-making can help reduce this resistance.
Physical and mental challenges
Moving to a care home is even more daunting for those with physical limitations or cognitive impairments. The unfamiliar environment can lead to confusion or frustration. Ensure that the care home staff are fully aware of your loved one’s needs and have a personalised care plan in place to provide extra support during the transition.
Family guilt and stress
As a family member, you might feel guilty about moving your loved one into a care home or stressed about how they’ll cope. Remember that you’re making the best decision for their well-being and that they’ll be in a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive.
The Role of Family and Friends After the Move
The move to a care home is just the beginning – what really matters is the support you continue to give afterwards. Regular visits, phone calls and little gestures like sending a card or some photos can brighten your loved one’s day and keep them feeling connected. Try setting up a visiting schedule with other family members so they get a steady stream of company without feeling overwhelmed. And don’t forget to celebrate special occasions together, like birthdays or holidays. It’s a great way to keep things feeling normal and remind them they’re still a big part of the family. Your ongoing presence and involvement in their everyday life can make a world of difference, helping them settle in and feel at home.
