Moving into residential care will big change in your life. Here are some strategies to help make the move as positive an experience as possible.
Open communication
It's important to have clear and open communication among all those involved in the placement. You, your family and other key support people may have differing views on the merits of residential care.
If there is a conflict within the family/support system, it is sometimes preferable to have an objective third party present (eg a social worker) who may help facilitate such a discussion.
Sometimes, caregivers feel a sense of disloyalty in actively assisting with the placement process of a relative or friend. Occasionally, the older person can feel let down or angry about making such a move. Misunderstandings can easily occur within these situations. It is therefore important all those involved in the placement process express their views and concerns in an honest but sensitive way.
Practical considerations
Taking some familiar items can make your room feel more like home: a favourite armchair, pictures, photographs, ornaments. Ensure clothing is labelled. Document such things as what you like to be called, if you take sugar in your tea, how you get dressed, etc.
Keeping in touch
Sometimes when a person moves into care it is possible to lose touch with friends and relatives, particularly if the residence is not close to where they live. You should endeavour to retain these friendships. Ask for help to do this if necessary.
Possibly, instead of making a weekly visit, a get-together of your friends could be organised. Making tapes is another means of keeping in touch. Maybe home video tapes can be used for those out of town. The phone is, of course,a great way to contact friends. Remember to check with the manager when choosing a home about conditions surrounding the phone use. It is preferable to be able to have access to a phone in privacy.
Continue your club or group associations if you possibly can. You may be able to use mobility vouchers to assist with taxi fares. Other club members may also be able to help with transport. Make enquiries at a group meeting if you need help. If gardening has been an interest, ask if a piece of garden can be made available for you to look after.
Getting involved
Although it is important to maintain an interest in the world outside the home, it is equally important to get involved with activities within it. Participating in any activity programmes offered can help you establish relationships with others. If the activities are not what you enjoy doing, discuss other activity options with the management.