Tips For Getting Settled In A Nursing Care Home

Moving into a care home can be a significant transition, whether you’re making the choice for yourself or a loved one. With an ageing population, nursing homes have become an increasingly important option for long-term care, where residents’ often complex healthcare needs can continue to be met. At Caring Homes, we aim to make this transition as smooth and comfortable as possible, making sure that anyone looking at care options is well-prepared and informed. This blog offers valuable tips to help you or your family member adjust to life in a nursing home in the UK.

Personalising your space with familiar items can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, and participating in activities and social events can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of belonging. Embracing these tips will ensure a more positive and enriching experience as life in a nursing home begins.

Communication Is Key

First and foremost, communication is key. At Caring Homes, we recommend engaging in open and honest conversations with your family members, our friendly and knowledgeable team members, and fellow residents.

This will help you to understand the daily routines and services offered in your nursing home and will build up a strong support network.

Make Your Accommodation Your Own

When moving into to a care home, one of the essential aspects of getting settled is making your new accommodation feel like home. It’s crucial to personalise your living space to create a sense of comfort and familiarity. You can start by bringing cherished personal items, such as family photos, favourite books, or a cosy blanket. These familiar objects can help you or your loved one feel more at ease in the nursing home environment.

In our UK nursing homes, we encourage you to decorate your room with your own personal style and taste, whether that means adding artwork, curtains, or other personal touches. This sense of personalisation not only creates a warm and inviting atmosphere but also contributes to a smoother transition into nursing home life.

Getting To Know Our Team

At Caring Homes, our team has a genuine interest in people, and they play a vital role in ensuring the wellbeing and comfort of those staying or living at our care homes. By taking the time to get to know the team, learning their names, and communicating your preferences and needs openly, our team can tailor your experience to you and in turn, help you feel more settled.

This includes trusting in our Registered General Nurses to do what they do best. Our nurses will want to make you feel comfortable from the start and are highly experienced in supporting your unique health-related and complex care needs as well as personal care needs.

Building relationships with each other is key to help you and your family have ongoing peace of mind – not just with your care and routine medications but also your daily physical and mental wellbeing. Nothing can beat an initial warm and open chat about your healthcare needs, to complement records and medical notes, where the person ‘behind the uniform’ can shine through with compassionate, person-centred support.

Meet Your Fellow Residents

Equally important is forging connections with fellow residents in our nursing homes. Engaging in communal activities, such as group meals or recreational programs, will allow you to meet others who share similar experiences.

These interactions can alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of belonging within the nursing home community. Building relationships with our Caring Homes team members and residents not only enhances your overall experience but also creates a supportive environment that can make the transition more manageable and enjoyable.

Establishing A Routine

In the first few days at your new nursing home, it is crucial to form a familiar routine to provide you with a sense of structure and comfort. We recommend starting by coordinating with the carers and team members to align your daily activities with familiar habits, such as mealtimes, exercise, or leisure activities.

Additionally, incorporating personal rituals like morning or bedtime routines can help make your new nursing home feel more like home. Having a consistent schedule can ease the transition and create a sense of predictability.

While adapting to a care home may present challenges, establishing a familiar routine that also complements your healthcare needs can be a powerful tool in maintaining a sense of control and comfort, ensuring a smoother and more fulfilling transition.

Taking Part In Activities

Getting some fresh air, continuing a cherished hobby, or learning something new will do wonders for your wellbeing when moving into a care home. Participating in a range of diverse activities not only contributes to combatting feelings of isolation but also allows for social interaction and the development of new friendships, all of which can significantly enhance the quality of life in a nursing home.

Engaging in activities helps keep residents mentally stimulated and offers a sense of purpose, contributing to a more positive and enjoyable environment. Whether it’s arts and crafts, group outings, or fitness classes, getting involved is a proactive way to embrace the nursing home experience and make the most of this new chapter in life.

Our nursing homes in the UK provide essential care and support for individuals at various stages of life, and making the most of this experience requires a proactive and open-minded approach. By taking the steps to create a sense of home, fostering connections, maintaining routines, and engaging in activities, residents can find comfort, companionship, and purpose within the nursing home community. With these guidelines in mind, the transition to a care home can be a fulfilling and enriching journey.

If you would like to learn more about our care homes and the services available, please visit our page here. You can also browse our site to find a nursing care home nearest or most suitable to you and arrange a visit. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to learn more!