With people living longer than ever, the average life expectancy is currently just under 78 years. There has become a need to consider alternative living arrangements for seniors who cannot or do not want to live in their own homes. Many options exist, from assisted living arrangements to moving in with family members, retirement communities, and nursing homes.
The decision to move an aging parent into a nursing home is never easy. It can be a difficult and overwhelming transition for everyone involved. This move is typically made to assist your parent’s day-to-day living, which is limited by health conditions or physical limitations. If done right, it can also be a positive experience for both the parent and the family.
Here are some tips on how to support aging parents in a nursing home:
Advocate for them
Advocating for aging parents in a nursing home means being their voice and standing up for their rights. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the nursing home’s policies and procedures and to become familiar with the staff.
When visiting your loved one, ask about their care and treatment. Ask questions about their medications, diet, hygiene, and other issues you feel could be improved. It’s important to be proactive and advocate for their best interests.
It’s also important to remember that you are not just a visitor but an advocate. Make sure to voice any concerns that you may have and be prepared to take action if needed.
Another way to advocate for aging parents is to stay informed about changes in the nursing home. Stay vigilant about changes that could impact your loved one’s care. Keep an eye out for changes in policies, staff, or services.
Bring some home comforts
One of the best ways to show your support for an aging parent in a nursing home is to bring them some home comforts. It can be as simple as a favorite blanket or a framed photo of the family.
Bringing items from home can make the nursing home feel more like home. It can also provide a sense of comfort and security for your aging parent.
It’s also a good idea to bring some of your parents’ favorite snacks and treats. This can make the transition to the nursing home easier and provide a tasty treat.
Bring some of their favorite books, magazines, or puzzles if your parent cannot participate in activities. This can keep them engaged and entertained and distract them from their situation.
Get to know the staff
It’s essential to get to know the staff at the nursing home. This can help ensure that your aging parent gets the best possible care.
Make an effort to introduce yourself to the staff and tell them you advocate for your parent. Ask questions about their experience and qualifications, and stay in contact with them. Pay attention to who provides most of the care and how they interact with your parent during your visits.
It’s also a good idea to get to know the other families at the nursing home. This can be a great source of support and help you stay informed about any changes in the nursing home.
Visit or call regularly
Visiting or calling your aging parent regularly is one of the best ways to show support. It’s essential to make an effort to stay in touch and let them know that you are thinking of them.
Even if your parent cannot communicate, being there can make a world of difference. It provides comfort and security and helps make the transition to the nursing home more manageable.
If you can’t visit in person, try making regular phone or video calls. This can help to keep your aging parent connected to the outside world and can be a source of comfort and companionship.
It’s also essential to stay in contact with the nursing home staff. Ask questions about your parent’s care and treatment, and remain informed about any changes in their condition.
Listen to their concerns and support them
One of the most important things you can do to support an aging parent in a nursing home is to listen to their concerns and be supportive. It can be challenging to adjust to a new environment, and it’s essential to be understanding and patient.
Listen to your parent’s concerns and worries and try to provide reassurance and support. Remind them of the good things about the nursing home and the people caring for them. But don’t dismiss your parent if they raise concerns about their level of care. You expect them to be treated with compassion and dignity, and if their caregiver isn’t providing that, you need to find out why. If you suspect nursing home abuse, you can raise this with managers and get expert legal advice and a free review of your case.
It’s also important to be patient and understanding. Aging parents can be stubborn and resistant to change, and it’s essential to be patient and supportive.
Help them get involved with other residents
It’s essential to help your aging parent to get involved with other residents. Encourage them to participate in activities, join clubs, or socialize with other residents.
Loneliness is often touted as the silent killer amongst senior communities as more people lose contact with family and friends. Communication and socialization can help keep the brain sharp and ward off depression or feelings of loneliness and isolation. So encouraging your parent to be active within the community can help them to retain their independence and mental health through this transition.
Encourage your aging parent to reach out to other residents and try to get to know them. This can help to create a sense of community and can provide a source of companionship.
Conclusion
Moving an aging parent into a nursing home is never an easy decision, but it can be a positive experience for both the parent and the family. It’s essential to advocate for your aging parent, bring home comforts, get to know the staff, visit or call regularly, listen to their concerns, and help them get involved with other residents. You can ensure that your loved one receives the best care possible with patience and understanding.
Thank you for reading!
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