Being There for a Loved One in a Nursing Home

It may be difficult, and it may feel scary—but when the time comes when your parent or loved one requires medical needs beyond what family members are able to provide, making the choice to place them in a nursing home has to be made. This move can help ensure their continued well-being and safety.

Although you are no longer their primary caregiver, you will always be an important part of their lives. You can still be there for them, even if you aren’t always there physically. Here’s how:

·       Accept the Change

The journey can be very emotional. You may feel guilt, sadness, and anxiety all at the same time. These emotions are completely normal. You have to allow yourself to grieve, and process everything that this transition will entail. True to the saying, “You can’t give what you don’t have,” you cannot fully support your parent or relative unless you are able to accept this change. If you’re struggling with this process, don’t hesitate to seek help from a trained therapist and/or an elder law attorney.

The Koler Law Office provides Nursing Home Planning to calm client’s fears and worries regarding the financial aspect of nursing homes and long-term care.

·       Conduct a Thorough Background Check on Potential Facilities

Unfortunately, neglect and abuse still occur in some nursing homes. This is why it is very important to do a thorough background study on prospective homes first. Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare is a tool you can use to scrutinize a facility’s rating.

Once you have already selected one, it pays to remain vigilant. Visiting your loved one regularly helps in checking probable signs of neglect and abuse. Pay attention to how the staff interact with residents. If any red flag arises, seek professional help.

·       Give Them Memories to Hold On To

For many seniors, this transition in life is the hardest to deal with, as they feel a loss of independence. You can help make the change easier for them by giving them memories to hold on to, such as photo albums with special moments in the past, and items that they treasure the most. If you will be allowed, you can also help them decorate their new room in the nursing home, and make it feel like home.

·       Visit Them Frequently

Continually persevere to be a part of their lives. Visit them once, twice or more per week to make sure they don’t feel forgotten; remember important dates like their birthday. If you are unavailable to drop by, make phone calls or write letters frequently, asking how they are feeling and how they are being treated. It is important to know if they are receiving the best care possible. Giving gifts will surely make them feel loved and always remembered, as well.

·       Encourage Them To Engage With Others

Getting involved in activities and making friends in the nursing home are great ways to help your loved one avoid feelings of being alone.

·       Seek Legal Help

During this stage of your parent’s or relative’s life, preparation for their end-of-life care is a priority to ensure that their medical care is thoroughly provided, their assets will be protected, and their wishes will be honored.

The Koler Law Office is a team of seasoned elder law attorneys who can help you handle Estate and Medicaid Planning, Wills and Trusts, Estate and Trust Administration, and Guardianship. We value our clients like they are our own family, and empower them to decide on the best options for their family.

In need of assistance? Schedule a consultation today.