It is never easy to make the decision to move someone from the comfort of their home to the strange and sometimes, formidable surroundings of the Nursing Home . There are occasions when there is no other choice and it really is in the very best interests of the elderly person concerned. While we may have feelings of guilt at having to make the choice, there are a number of important things to consider in making the move as smooth and gentle as possible.
Include your parent or spouse in your decisions and choices. Where ever possible, allow them to have a say in the final choice. The elderly were fine upstanding citizens in their prime and including them in this process allows them some degree of control. There is a quirky saying that if you want a man to do something, make him think it was his idea to begin with. This theory is relevant to the elderly as well.
Our worse fear as we age is the loss of our dignity. Once we have control over our lives, it is debilitating and depressing to lose it. When we encourage elders to do as much as they can for themselves, we allow them to feel more involved and a little in control. Be sure to give them time to complete their tasks and show respect for their efforts. Extreme patience is the key.
Never isolate the elderly. One of the saddest images of nursing homes is the idea that the elderly are dumped and forgotten. Although this is seldom the case, it is still a very real fear in each and every one of us. Before the move, be sure to establish a visiting routine. Encourage other family members to participate. It is of paramount importance that these visiting dates are maintained as much as possible to avoid the feelings of neglect and abandonment. Make these visits fun and enjoyable by sharing antidotes of your life, photos and stories of your family. Planning regular outings will encourage interaction with society and the world outside the nursing home.
As with all major moves, there will be a period of settling in and adjustments. Communication is essential and you should encourage your elder to discuss how they are feeling and what upsets them. Consider the nursing staff part of the team and be sure to discuss major concerns with them. Sometimes simply adding sentimental touches that feel like home can make the world of difference. A personal coffee cup or a favorite blanket may be all that is needed to make your loved one feel more comfortable in their new surroundings.
It is never easy to make the decision to move someone from the comfort of their home to the strange and sometimes, formidable surroundings of the Nursing Home . There are occasions when there is no other choice and it really is in the very best interests of the elderly person concerned. While we may have feelings of guilt at having to make the choice, there are a number of important things to consider in making the move as smooth and gentle as possible.
Include your parent or spouse in your decisions and choices. Where ever possible, allow them to have a say in the final choice. The elderly were fine upstanding citizens in their prime and including them in this process allows them some degree of control. There is a quirky saying that if you want a man to do something, make him think it was his idea to begin with. This theory is relevant to the elderly as well.
Our worse fear as we age is the loss of our dignity. Once we have control over our lives, it is debilitating and depressing to lose it. When we encourage elders to do as much as they can for themselves, we allow them to feel more involved and a little in control. Be sure to give them time to complete their tasks and show respect for their efforts. Extreme patience is the key.
Never isolate the elderly. One of the saddest images of nursing homes is the idea that the elderly are dumped and forgotten. Although this is seldom the case, it is still a very real fear in each and every one of us. Before the move, be sure to establish a visiting routine. Encourage other family members to participate. It is of paramount importance that these visiting dates are maintained as much as possible to avoid the feelings of neglect and abandonment. Make these visits fun and enjoyable by sharing antidotes of your life, photos and stories of your family. Planning regular outings will encourage interaction with society and the world outside the nursing home.
As with all major moves, there will be a period of settling in and adjustments. Communication is essential and you should encourage your elder to discuss how they are feeling and what upsets them. Consider the nursing staff part of the team and be sure to discuss major concerns with them. Sometimes simply adding sentimental touches that feel like home can make the world of difference. A personal coffee cup or a favorite blanket may be all that is needed to make your loved one feel more comfortable in their new surroundings.
Article by: Rosemary Charlton