It can be a difficult decision, but there may come a time when you are no longer able to give an elder loved one the level of care they need and deserve. This means that you will need to begin the process of moving him or her to a nursing home facility. Even when you know moving a loved one into a nursing home is for the best, it can still be very difficult on you and the person making the move into the facility. Be aware of the things you should do when moving a loved one into a nursing home to help ease the transition for everyone.
Things to Do When Moving A Loved One to a Nursing Home
Before you begin moving your loved on to a nursing home, you need to select one. Narrow down your search based on factors such as location and cost. Evaluate your options from there. Once you have selected the facility, be sure to visit the room in which your loved one will be living in, or one with a similar set up. Get a feel for things such as the amount of storage space. Know what will be included in the monthly facility fees. Most nursing homes will provide things such as bedding and towels, but laundering linens may come with an additional fee. Ask whether there is cable or Wi-Fi and whether that is included in the monthly cost.
Knowing what is offered at the facility and what the room will be like allows you to best pack for the move. Your loved one will need washable clothes that are easy to get on and off. It is also a good idea to pack the familiar comforts of home which may be as simple as packing up favorite personal care products. A soft, cozy blanket is always a good idea. To keep spirits lifted, adding decorative touches and personal mementos, such as family photographs are great to pack up as well. Make sure that your loved one is surrounded by as many “comforts of home” as possible as the nursing home will be his or her new home.
You also need to be prepared to not only deal with the emotions you will have surrounding this move, but also the emotions your loved one will have. Keep listening with an open mind and heart to feelings and complaints. There may be lingering anger and resentment towards you for the move. Know that the transition can be difficult, but you did what was best for everyone. Sometimes, a person may just want to vent frustrations to someone loved and trusted. Make frequent check-ins with your loved one. Such a difficult transition in living situations may trigger bouts of depression or severe anxiety.
Elder Law Attorney
We want the best for our family. Moving an aging loved one into a nursing home is difficult, even when it is in everyone’s best interests. At Monk Law, we are here to provide you and your family with legal counsel in issues relating to elder law. Moving your loved one into a nursing home will likely come with some complex legal issues such as what benefits are available to cover the costs of care. We are here to help. Contact Monk Law today.