Nursing homes exist for those in need of constant care. When a loved one is in need of constant care, families often find themselves faced with a difficult decision - whether or not to seek nursing home care. Numerous factors determine when it is time to move a loved one to a nursing home facility for around the clock care by experts.
The transition from home to nursing home can be traumatic for both the patient and the family. However, there are ways to make this transition a little easier.
Before considering the move to a nursing home, consult your loved one and your loved one's physician. Make sure the move is medically necessary. This may help your loved one feel more confident in the decision.
Encourage everyone in the family to talk about his or her feelings. Make sure everyone agrees with the decision to admit a loved one to a nursing home. Talk about how the transition will affect not only the patient, but also everyone involved.
Anger may be a predominant emotion. Expect this and be prepared for it. Many nursing home residents feel rejected by their families who can no longer care for them. Realize that anger is reasonable and appropriate in this situation.
Talk with your loved one about things they would like to try to include in their usual routine. Things may include going to church services, getting a weekly manicure, and more. Speak to the nursing home staff about the possibility of keeping certain routines in place.
Reassure your loved one and other family members that a nursing home is the best decision. Thoroughly check out the nursing home to reassure you that it is a quality facility with a caring staff.
Talk excitedly about the new people and community your loved one will be living in. Many times a nursing home is less lonely to a person living alone.
Bring some of your loved one's personal belongings to the nursing home. This will make the transition easier. Items may include pictures, music, books, and possibly even towels and the linens from their own bed.
Many times moving a loved one into a nursing home is more stressful on the family than on the patient. Family caregivers can suddenly find themselves faced with stress, guilt, and sadness. Families, and especially former caregivers, should come together and talk about it. Making sacrifices to care for a loved one is noble, but caregivers should remember they are entitled to a life, too.
Visit often and do your best to help your loved one adjust to life at a nursing home. When visiting, try to do things your loved one enjoys. Eat dinner together or go outside and take a walk if they are able. Keep them informed on what is going on with the family. Anything you can do to promote your loved one's well-being will make the transition to living in a nursing home easier.
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