When a loved one moves into a care home, it can bring up a wave of emotions and questions about how to keep your bond strong and meaningful. Visiting and staying close is essential for both you and your loved one, as it helps them feel connected and cared for while giving you peace of mind. If a relative has recently moved into a care home, this guide can help you build and nurture a fulfilling relationship.
1. Communicate Regularly and Creatively
Communication is key to maintaining any relationship, and it’s especially vital when someone is in a care home. Regular visits are invaluable, but there are also creative ways to stay connected even when you’re not physically there. Consider these ideas:
- Video Calls: Set up a schedule for video calls if possible. Many care homes have tablets or laptops available for residents. Seeing a familiar face can be incredibly uplifting.
- Letters and Cards: A handwritten note can feel extra special in such a digital age where everything is sent virtually. Sending letters, postcards, or even small photos is a personal touch that helps your loved one feel remembered.
- Record Voice Messages: If your loved one has limited mobility or cognitive function, hearing a loved one’s voice can be reassuring. Short messages, recordings, or even sharing songs can brighten their day.
2. Get Involved with Their Routine
Many care homes offer social events, activities, and routines designed to enhance quality of life. Knowing your loved one’s daily schedule can help you be more involved and support them effectively. Find out what activities your loved one enjoys and consider joining them on occasion. If they haven’t explored the various options their care home offers, you can find this out for them and make suggestions about going with them. Take a look at langfordpark.co.uk for more information about the types of activities in which care homes engage their residents. Whether it’s bingo, arts and crafts, or music therapy, participating together strengthens your bond and lets you share joyful moments.
Some care homes also allow family members to join for meals. Sharing a meal can make your visit feel more like quality family time. Or, if possible, take your loved one out for short trips or walks. A change of scenery, even just around the garden, can be refreshing for both of you.
3. Bring Comforts from Home
Familiar items from home can make your loved one’s space more comfortable and personal, helping them feel connected to their memories and loved ones. Some ideas include:
- Personal Photos and Keepsakes: Family photos, favourite knick-knacks, or mementoes from their home can make the room feel familiar. Even a small item, like a favourite throw blanket, can bring comfort.
- Books, Music, and Hobbies: Bring items that reflect their interests. Books, magazines, or a playlist of their favourite songs can provide entertainment and a sense of normalcy.
- Seasonal Decorations: Changing decor with the seasons helps the room feel refreshed and brings some holiday spirit, whether it’s flowers in the spring or festive ornaments during the winter.
4. Build Relationships with Staff
The care home staff plays a crucial role in your loved one’s daily life. By getting to know the staff, you’ll gain insights into how your loved one is doing and build a support system that extends beyond family. Here’s how:
- Communicate Regularly: Make it a point to check in with staff during visits or through scheduled calls. They can keep you updated on your loved one’s health, activities, and social interactions.
- Express Appreciation: Recognising and valuing the hard work that staff members put into caregiving can create goodwill and a positive atmosphere. Simple gestures like a thank-you note or expressing appreciation can go a long way.
- Involve Staff in Personalised Care: Share insights about your loved one’s preferences, routines, or personal history. This helps staff provide care that aligns with their personality and values.
5. Plan for Special Occasions
Celebrating birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries together can create moments of joy and maintain the sense of family traditions. Many care homes are happy to accommodate small family gatherings in common areas. You could bring simple decorations for birthdays or holidays to make their space festive. Or, for special days where family members can’t visit in person, they can send cards, videos, or participate in a group video call.
In Closing
Maintaining a close relationship with a loved one in a care home may take some planning, but the benefits are well worth it. These bridges you build together will bring both of you peace, comfort, and joy—no matter the distance.
