A lot of people never want to think about their grandparents, their parents, or an older aunt or uncle being placed in a care setting.
It can signify a lot of things to a lot of people, but for many, it also has a real downside; their elderly relative is no longer living with them.
Remember that transitioning into a nursing home can be a significant life change for older relatives, too, and it is a critical period that requires support and understanding from their family members.
So, how can you help your older relative to cope with these changes?
Emotional Support
The emotional well-being of older relatives is paramount during the transition and will also be offered by the staff at any Signature Care Home at Highgate. Family members can provide the most emotional support by actively listening to their older relative’s concerns, fears, and anxieties. By acknowledging their emotions, relatives can help validate their feelings and provide reassurance. Regular visits, phone calls, or video chats can provide a sense of comfort and connectedness, helping to alleviate any feelings of loneliness or abandonment.
Involvement in Decision-Making
It is essential to involve older relatives in decision-making processes related to their transition into a nursing home. Discussing options, visiting potential facilities together, and considering their preferences and needs can empower them to feel more in control of their situation. This involvement ensures that their voices are heard, and it can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the change.
Assistance with Practical Matters
You can play a crucial role in assisting with practical matters during the transition. This may include organizing and packing personal belongings, ensuring necessary paperwork is completed, and coordinating the logistics of the move. Assisting with these practical tasks can help relieve some of the burdens from older relatives and provide them with a smoother transition process.
Maintaining a Familiar Environment
To help ease the transition, relatives can contribute to creating a familiar and comforting environment within the nursing home. This can involve personalizing the living space with standard items such as family photos, cherished possessions, or favorite furniture. By recreating elements of their previous home, relatives can help their loved ones feel more at ease and establish a sense of continuity.
In many nursing homes, you will even be allowed to paint the walls, which can be a great way to make the space that your relative is living in feel like their new home.
Advocacy and Regular Communication
It can be challenging for elderly people to move into an environment where a lot of decisions about their care are being made by nurses, doctors and support workers.
Of course, you can help!
Relatives can serve as advocates for their older loved ones by actively engaging with nursing home staff and administration. Regular communication with staff members can help address any concerns, ensure the provision of quality care, and stay informed about their loved one’s well-being. Advocating for their rights, preferences, and comfort can help ensure that their needs are met and that they receive the best possible care.
