The Ultimate Guide to a Stress-Free Move to a Residential Care Home
Moving to a care home is a big step and feeling overwhelmed is natural. But with the right approach, you can make the transition smooth and stress-free. We have some practical tips to help your loved one settle in comfortably and make the move as easy as possible for everyone involved.
How can you ease the transition to a residential care home?
An easy transition to a residential care home comes down to a few simple steps:
Start Early : Talk about the move well in advance to give your loved one time to adjust. This helps reduce anxiety and ensures they feel fully included in the decision-making process.
Visit Together : Take a few trips to the care home before the move to help them get comfortable with the new environment. Most homes offer a trial stay for a few weeks before you commit to long-term care.
Personalise Their Space : Bring personal photos, favourite blankets – even furniture, to make their new room feel like home.
Plan the Move : Organise the move carefully, with a clear plan for what to bring, what you need to buy and how to manage the day.
Involve Loved Ones : Have family and friends help with the move, offering emotional support and reassurance, and be there for familiar-feeling support during the first few days.
Stay Positive : It’s understandable you’ll be feeling emotional and sad during this big change, but keep a reassuring and positive attitude to help your loved one feel more at ease.
Addressing Fears and Concerns
Feeling anxious, sad or even guilty about this big change is expected. Instead of ignoring these feelings, talk about them openly because honest conversations ease worries and make everyone feel more comfortable with the decision. Including your loved one in the process, like involving them in decisions about the move, is reassuring and helps them feel more in control and less anxious. While this is a physical move – it’s also about supporting each other emotionally.
Practical Steps to Prepare for the Move
Here’s how to get your loved one ready for the move to a residential care home:
Downsize thoughtfully
Help your loved one sort through their belongings, focusing on keeping items that have personal meaning and will make their new space feel like home. Your relatives have most likely lived in their home for decades, so be sensitive about their attachment to certain items and allow them time to come to terms with this huge lifestyle change.
Organise important documents
Gather all necessary paperwork, like medical records and legal documents, to avoid any last-minute stress.
Coordinate with care home staff
Most care homes visit residents before the move to thoroughly assess their medical needs and lifestyle preferences to create a care plan, enabling them to support your loved one.
Plan the move
Outline the details for moving day – decide who’s helping, how to transport belongings and what needs to happen once you arrive. A clear plan will make the day smoother and less overwhelming.
How to Help Your Your Loved One Settle Into Care Home Life
The first few days in a new place are usually unsettling and uncomfortable, so spend some extra time with them during those initial days – your presence will make them feel more secure and comfortable.
Encourage your relative to get involved in activities at the care home. Whether it’s joining a social event or participating in a hobby they enjoy, this is a great way to make new friends and feel more at home.
Reassure your loved one that they won’t be alone. And schedule a few visits to give them something to look forward to. Regular phone calls and texts can make a big difference, too. Staying connected lets them know you’re still there for them, even if you’re not always physically present.
Keep an eye on how they’re doing. If you see any changes in mood or behaviour, don’t hesitate to chat with the care home staff. They’re there to address any concerns you have. With your support and a little time, your loved one will soon start to feel at home in their new environment.
Long-Term Support for a Smooth Care Home Transition
Here’s how to keep supporting your loved one after they settle into their new home:
Stay in Touch with the Staff
Most care homes prioritise communication with residents’ families. They provide daily updates and immediate alerts during an emergency. So, regularly check in with the care home staff to stay updated on how your loved one is adjusting and to address any concerns.
Be Patient
Adjusting takes time. Some residents take to care home life much easier than others, so be patient and give your loved one the space they need to get comfortable in their new surroundings.
Celebrate Milestones
Mark small wins, like the first month in the care home, to reinforce the positives and help your loved one feel good about the move.
Encourage Ongoing Involvement
A suitable care home will have a full daily schedule of activities to suit every interest and capability. Keep encouraging your loved one to participate in activities and social events — they’re key to forging friendships and feeling at home.
Visit Regularly
Continue making regular visits and try to stick to what you promise. Your ongoing presence is a massive source of comfort and stability for them.
Ensuring a Happy Adjustment
Moving to a residential care home can be stressful for everyone involved, but following the tips in our guide will make the transition much easier. Focus on the small things, such as regular visits, encouragement and celebrating milestones to genuinely make a difference. With time and your support, your loved one will soon be thriving in their new environment.