When an older person needs a higher level of care, placing them in a care home becomes the most practical solution. It is often a delicate and complicated process that requires careful thinking and handling. It is an emotional experience not only for the family members but also for the older person.
Carefully planning the move into a care home in Leicester can make the process much smoother and far less distressing for everyone involved. It also ensures that you get your loved one the excellent care they deserve and a reassuring care home that guarantees your loved one will be safe and well.
When Should Someone Move Into a Care Home?
The first step is to determine the best time to move someone into a care home. Care homes are designed to protect individuals who are unable to adequately care for themselves while living independently.
There are a number of signs to look out for to determine the right time to move into a care home. Some of the signs to look out for include:
- If the older person in question is struggling to get around the house without assistance
- If they are not able to keep their home clean and tidy
- They are experiencing falls and injuries
- Their behaviour puts them in potentially unsafe situations
- They cannot maintain a good diet and level of personal hygiene, or cannot take the required medication in the correct doses and intervals
It is normal for older people to worry that they will be a burden on their family members and relatives, and may feel embarrassed about struggling to take care of themselves. They might be reluctant to share their difficulties, and it is therefore up to the family to keep a close eye on them in order to identify when they are struggling.
Signs like bruises, burns, malnutrition, weight loss and laboured mobility and movement serve as indicators that it might be time to move your loved one into a care home.
Talking to a Loved One About Moving into a Care Home
Moving into a care home is not an easy decision, and breaking the news is always a touchy subject. Talking to a relative, spouse or friend about moving into a care home can be difficult. It is a daunting prospect that they have to leave their own home, and this can upset and make them feel offended to be told that they will be going to a care home because they cannot take care of themselves.
Evidently, this is a topic that requires a calculated approach and should be done sensitively. The first thing you want to avoid is taking an accusatory tone. You should also refrain from pointing out the things that your loved one is no longer able to do independently, as this might make them feel embarrassed and upset.
Instead, focus on explaining why you’re concerned and ask them how they feel about their situation, whether they need more help, and if they require additional support.
During the discussion, it is essential to ensure that they feel listened to and involved in the decision-making process. This will make the steps following the talk much easier and more cooperative.
What Happens If Someone Refuses to Go into a Care Home?
It is not unusual to come across an older person who is reluctant to move into a care home. In some cases, they may repeatedly refuse despite being desperately in need. If you find yourself in a similar situation, find the best solution that causes the least conflict.
It is important to have an honest conversation about what exactly is behind your loved one’s rejection of a care home, as it is a crucial place to start. You can then work your way into addressing some of their concerns. You can allow them to research and choose the care home they would like to go to. If they are adamant, you can compromise by opting for a halfway house solution, such as employing a live-in carer.
There are homes that provide respite care, allowing someone to stay in the care home for a short period. This gives their carer a rest, but also allows the older person to experience what life would be like in the care home. This can help them understand and alleviate any fears they may have about moving into the care home, making the transition much easier.
If the older person continues to refuse the intervention of a care home, you can consider a care needs assessment through the local authority. The local authority will provide a professional third-party opinion as to whether full-time residential care is necessary.
While the local authority might give you an unbiased, third opinion, ultimately, someone can only be moved into a care home against their will if they are mentally incapable of making their own decisions. You can obtain a power of attorney that enables you to make decisions about their care.
What Can You Take Into a Care Home?
Most care homes allow you to bring in any belongings that will make you feel right at home. This makes the process of moving into the care home much easier and gives your new room a more homely feel. Some care homes will even allow you to bring items like furniture, a television, and a bed.
You will also need to take toiletries and clothes. Consider labelling your clothes so that they don’t get lost in the laundry.
Closing Remarks
Before moving into a care home, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the place so that when it is time to move in, you are well-adjusted and feel at ease.
Regular visits before the first official day can be a good way to know the care home better. It also helps you get familiar with the facility’s surroundings, the staff, and other residents. You should also think about how you will decorate your room and the activities you would like to take part in and spend your time.
This is a big life change. It can be a stressful and emotional experience, so it’s essential to take it slowly and allow as much time as possible to acclimate and adjust to the idea of moving into the care home.