Wondering how to stay close to your loved one after they move into a care home? Discover practical tips to maintain a strong connection, ensure their happiness, and stay involved daily.
Moving a loved one into a care home can be an emotional experience, but it doesn’t mean you have to lose your connection with them. Staying involved in their life strengthens your bond and ensures they feel supported, valued, and loved. This guide offers practical tips and actionable steps to help you remain active in your loved one’s life, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being.
Why Staying Involved Matters
For many residents, the transition to a care home brings uncertainty and isolation. Your continued involvement can:
- Provide emotional reassurance.
- Help them adapt to their new environment.
- Ensure they receive personalised care that reflects their needs and preferences.
According to Age UK, regular family involvement has been linked to improved mental health and happiness among care home residents.
Practical Ways to Stay Involved
- Maintain Regular Visits
Visiting your loved one is one of the most meaningful ways to stay connected.
- Plan Consistent Visits:Establish a regular schedule, whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Consistency gives them something to look forward to.
- Involve Other Family Members:Coordinate with siblings or grandchildren to ensure they also visit regularly.
- Be Fully Present:Focus on quality time during visits—turn off your phone and engage in meaningful conversations.
Tip: Bring along something they enjoy, such as their favorite snacks, books, or family photos, to make the visit special.
- Participate in Care Home Activities
Many Guildford Care Home organise group events and activities for residents and families.
- Attend Events Together: Join them for social gatherings, holiday celebrations, or recreational activities.
- Volunteer Your Time: Offer to help with activities like bingo nights, art sessions, or gardening clubs.
- Encourage Participation: Motivate your loved one to attend these events to foster social interaction.
Example: If your loved one enjoys music, attend a music therapy session or sing-along event with them.
- Stay Connected Through Technology
If distance or time constraints prevent frequent visits, technology can bridge the gap.
- Video Calls: Use platforms like Zoom or FaceTime for virtual visits.
- Send Regular Updates: Share photos, videos, or voice messages about family events or milestones.
- Digital Photo Frames: Set up a frame that automatically updates with new pictures from family members.
- Communicate with Care Staff
Building a relationship with the care home staff ensures you stay informed about your loved one’s well-being.
- Introduce Yourself: Get to know the caregivers and nurses who work with your loved one.
- Request Updates: Ask for regular feedback on their health, mood, and engagement.
- Provide Input: Share details about their preferences, routines, or hobbies to help staff tailor care.
Tip: Attend family meetings or care plan reviews to stay involved in decision-making.
- Celebrate Special Occasions Together
Marking special events is a wonderful way to create joyful memories.
- Birthdays and Anniversaries: Organize small celebrations with family members or other residents.
- Holidays: Bring festive decorations or share traditional meals to make the occasion special.
- Milestones: Celebrate even small achievements, like a successful physical therapy session or participation in a new activity.
- Respect Their Independence
While staying involved is essential, it’s equally important to give your loved one the space to adapt and thrive in their new environment.
- Encourage Autonomy: Support their participation in community life without overshadowing their independence.
- Respect Boundaries: Understand that they may want to establish new routines or relationships within the care home.
- Be a Cheerleader: Celebrate their accomplishments and new friendships.
Overcoming Challenges
Staying involved isn’t always easy, especially if you live far away or have a busy schedule. Here’s how to address common obstacles:
- Time Constraints: Schedule short but meaningful calls or visits during breaks or weekends.
- Distance: Coordinate visits around holidays or use technology for frequent communication.
- Emotional Barriers: It’s natural to feel sadness or guilt, but focus on the positive impact of your involvement on their happiness.
Benefits of Staying Involved
- Improved Well-Being: Residents who feel connected to their families often report better emotional and mental health.
- Stronger Relationships: Continued involvement deepens your bond and keeps your loved one engaged with family life.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing they are happy and well-cared-for provides reassurance to both you and your loved one.
Conclusion
Moving into a Guildford Care Home doesn’t mean stepping out of your loved one’s life. You can remain a vital part of their world by visiting regularly, staying connected through technology, participating in activities, and maintaining open communication with care staff.
Your involvement enriches their quality of life and strengthens your relationship, creating cherished memories along the way.
