The things that matter most
Transitioning from a family home to a full-time care home can sometimes have its challenges. Here’s how you can smoothe the way.
There’s no denying that making the move to a full-time care home can come with some mixed emotions, for both the individuals concerned and their families. But with a good plan that takes into account some of the simple things in life, it can all work out wonderfully for everyone concerned.
The warmest welcome
One of the country’s leading care home providers, Radius Care, takes the introduction of new people into their residences very seriously.
A warm welcome to the facility, its staff and other residents can make a huge difference to the allimportant settling-in period and establish a positive pathway that will take the new resident forward with optimism and a renewed zest for life.
When this stage is handled well, with sensitivity and care, allowing for things to move at a pace that the resident is comfortable with, any perceived upheaval can usually be minimised and overcome.
A favourite chair or a treasured pet. There’s comfort in the familiar, so Laurel Winwood, Manager of Radius Care’s highly regarded Taupaki Gables facility in West Auckland, actively encourages new residents to bring something special from their previous home with them.
Sometimes this can be as simple as a comfy armchair from which they’re used to observing the world. For others, it’s bringing a much-loved, well-behaved pet that’s as much a part of their family as anyone else.
The key is maintaining a sense of normality, focusing on everyday happpiness and wellbeing. If it makes the individual feel good and there are no negative effects on anyone else in the residence then, to Laurel Winwood, it’s worth doing.
A gentle routine.
Establishing a regular programme of activities from the outset is vital to making a new resident feel right at home.
This doesn’t need to be too hectic, but just enough to establish some human connections with staff and fellow residents alike.
Laurel Winwood sees the group within her facility as very much a community.
“Our residents very quickly become part of the place and, soon after that, they’re like lifelong friends to both our staff and other people in our care. I can promise you that no-one at a Radius Care home ever has cause to feel bored or restless. We keep everyone happily active and engaged through all seasons.”
Let the experts be your guide.
Remember, if you’re unsure about anything around the process of seeking full-time care or respite assistance, then all it takes is a quick call to any reputable provider.
There are kind, compassionate people like Laurel Winwood all around the country who are only too willing to offer their expertise to make the process easy on everyone.
Take the first step by popping in for a chat and asking a few questions of your own. With a little research and guidance from those in the know, finding the right place for your loved one will come about easily.