Make Moving to a Nursing Home Less Stressful
According to the AARP, about 10,000 members of the Baby Boomer generation turn 65 every day. If you are an adult child of Boomer parents, you may notice them beginning to have difficulty with everyday activities and household chores. Decreasing agility and balance, trouble remembering appointments and forgetting to take important medications may all be signs that it is time to consider moving to a nursing home.
Reduce the Stress of Moving to a Nursing Home
It can be difficult, however, to deal with the emotional aspect of transitioning your mother or father to a skilled care facility. While you may see the logic in providing a safe and supportive environment, your parent may be resentful or afraid of leaving their home. Many Boomers are reluctant to give up the sense of freedom and self-determination that this generation values so highly.
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to help to ease their stress about the move. A good place to start is asking them to join you on a guided tour of a skilled nursing facility. This may help your parent feel more involved in the decision and make them more receptive to the change.
Most importantly, don’t simply dismiss their fears or apprehensions about moving to a nursing home. Reassure your mother or father that you are not going to forget about them after they move. Be sure to take the time to get answers to your parent’s questions and inquire about counseling and support groups at the facility.
What to Expect After Moving to a Nursing Home
The first few weeks after moving to a nursing home can be a confusing time for your loved one. While they get used to a new place, new people and new routines, don’t be surprised if your elderly mother or father makes a few negative comments. Often, the best way to handle this situation is to simply listen to their concerns with empathy and understanding.
You can also help to ease the fear of being in a new place by exploring the facility with your parent. Check the social schedule for an activity you can enjoy together, sit down to eat a meal or get a cup of coffee. Enjoying these everyday activities together can go a long way towards helping them feel more relaxed in the new environment.
Help Your Elderly Parent Feel More at Home
Making their new residence as comfortable and personal as possible can help your parent maintain a positive outlook. Start by ensuring they have some of their favorite things from home, such as a favorite blanket or treasured knickknacks. Stocking their room with snacks or drinks they enjoy is a good idea, too.
Bringing a gift of photos of the people they love or artwork from grandchildren is a sure way to brighten your parent’s day. Enliven their room during your visits by decorating for holidays, bringing fresh flowers or adding a container of potpourri.
Additionally, bringing new books or current magazines can help to keep your parent engaged and entertained. Ensuring they have a telephone in their room to make or receive calls can help them feel connected to friends and family, too.
Visit Senatobia Healthcare & Rehab
Our skilled and experienced healthcare staff works hard to provide compassionate care to all of our residents. Call us today to schedule a tour of our facility in Senatobia, Mississippi, and see how our award-winning team can give you and your family the peace of mind you deserve.
