Four Tips for Transitioning a Loved one to a Nursing Home

If you have had to relocate a loved one to a nursing home, you know how difficult it is to find the right facility, determine how to pay the nursing home expenses and getting your loved one settled. But you need to stay vigilant once you do get them settled, for the involvement of family and friends is critical to the health and well-being of the resident.

Some tips for handling this transition:

Expect an adjustment period.

Moving someone you care for into a nursing home will be tense and painful for everyone involved. Family members will second guess their decision, while the resident must adjust their lives to their new living situation. Realize that there will be an adjustment period, but make sure it is not too much of one.

Watch for dramatic changes.

During the first few weeks, watch for dramatic changes in the health, mood or appearance of your loved one. Rapid weight loss or pressure sores can indicate nursing home neglect or substandard care.

Win over the staff.

Identify your loved one’s regular caregivers and get to know them, These efforts show your respect for the people responsible for meeting the needs of those unable to cope on their own, and it can go a long way. Conversations with staff can also offer them insights on the patient as well.

Stay involved.

Patients who receive regular visits from family and friends tend to have a higher level of care from staff. Visitors also have the opportunity to observe the level of care and advocate on behalf of their loved one.

A copy of the nursing home law that guarantees a nursing home patient’s rights are given to each resident. If you feel your loved one’s rights have been violated, contact me. As an elder law attorney, I can assist you.