Sometimes in life, the hardest decisions are often the right decisions. Placing your loved one in a nursing home or assisted living facility may be painful, but it is also necessary to ensure they get the care they need. However, being placed in a new environment without family around can be stressful and mentally draining on your loved one. Therefore it is essential to support them and do everything in your power to make their transition as easy as possible.
No matter how hard it is to put your loved one in someone else’s care, and it will be hard, you can prepare yourself by gaining the proper knowledge and gathering resources in case their experience turns sour. Here are six ways to show your support and be there for them in their time of need.
Make Their New Home Seem Familiar
One of the first things you should do when transitioning your loved one into a community care setting like a nursing home is to transform their room into a familiar place. Bring familiar blankets, family pictures, books, and special belongings to make your loved one feel as close to home as possible. According to the National Library of Medicine, familiarity is a key factor in providing a positive nursing home experience.
Share Information About Your Loved One To the Staff
Sharing information about your loved one with staff can also make your loved one feel more at home. Tell the staff about their favorite kinds of food, their hobbies, and things they enjoy. This will help the staff come to know your loved one as a person instead of just a patient, which can make it easier for them to respond in a positive manner when you are not there with them.
Visit as Much as You Can
It is essential to always make time to visit your loved ones in their new homes, especially at the beginning of their transition. You want them to feel loved and assured that you are always by their side no matter what. It is important to note that they may feel frustrated with you for putting them in a nursing home, but it is crucial to not get combative with them. Instead, shower them with love and support.
Send Physical Mail
In between visits, consider sending them cards and letters in the mail. Not only will it bring a smile to their face, but it will let them know that your care. Send pictures of your family with updates on your daily activities.
Encourage Them To Write Back
Sending mail not only shows that you care but gives them something to do. By sending your loved one letters to read, it forces them to use their brain to comprehend the letter and write back. It may seem simple, but these small tasks can give your loved one's purpose and help them maintain their cognitive health.
Plan Virtual Visits
Sometimes our schedules are too busy to physically visit, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be there for them. Scheduling phone calls and Facetime visits are an easy way to stay in touch and offer love and support when our schedules are jam-packed.
Encourage Participation in Activities
Staying active is crucial for both your loved one’s physical and mental well-being. It is also important for them to make new friends and socialize when you aren’t there. However, sometimes the adjustment can be daunting. If your loved one is having a hard time adjusting to nursing home life, bring them out to activities offered by the facility. Sometimes all they need is a little encouragement to get them out of their shell. Having you with them can ease their nerves and act as a positive way to spend quality time together.
Adjusting to the Nursing Home is Hard For Both Of You
Placing your loved one in a nursing home for the first time is going to be an emotional time for both of you. It is important to stay positive and strong in order to provide them with the best possible support system.
