For most seniors, a move to a nursing home often feels very difficult, and transitioning to their new surroundings often requires the close collaboration of family members and staff at the facility. Choosing a nursing home with the good amenities, friendly staff and positive reviews from other residents is often crucial to making the transition successful. However, there is so much more you can do to help your loved one quickly feel comfortable in their new surroundings.
Make their new environment feel like home
Seniors often find it easier to settle in their new room if it is filled with familiar items. You can help make the new space feel familiar by bringing your loved one's favorite beddings, hanging familiar pictures on the walls or even putting up art work and drapery they are fond of. Familiar items will often help your loved one to start viewing their new space as their own, allowing them to feel comfortable in the nursing home.
Additionally, try to share information about your loved one with the staff, so they know him more as a person. This may help your loved one respond positively to the staff since they know his likes, dislikes and history.
Visit regularly
Seniors typically respond better to a change in environment if they see a familiar, reassuring face on a regular basis, so be sure to pay your loved one a visit frequently. Spending time with them in their new room can help make the new space feel more familiar while reassuring them that you haven't forgotten them.
Calling regularly is equally important, as it will help your loved one feel he hasn't lost touch with his family. You can also surprise them with flower deliveries, new novels or other gifts that will let them know you still care.
Don't cut off their life outside the facility
For most seniors, being stuck in a nursing home away from their previous life often robs them of their sense of independence, which can make getting used to their new environment a lot harder. To ease the transition, try to maintain ties to familiar surroundings by taking your loved one to places they used to frequent such as church or their favorite diner every once in a while.
However, you also need to encourage them to build new relationships within the nursing home so they get a sense of community. Choose a nursing home that hosts activities such as trips or yoga classes to help your loved one socialize with others in their new environment and remain mentally stimulated.