Having a grandparent move into a care home can be an emotional transition for both them and the family. While a care home environment can offer safety, social interaction, and assistance with daily needs, it’s still essential for family members to remain involved and provide support.
There are many ways to stay connected and ensure that your grandparent feels loved, valued, and engaged. Here are some thoughtful tips to help your family provide meaningful support to a grandparent living in a care home.
Stay Connected Through Regular Visits
One of the most meaningful ways to support your grandparent is by visiting regularly. Consistent visits provide a sense of stability and give them something to look forward to. Try to establish a routine, whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, and stick to it as much as possible.
While visits may not need to be lengthy, the quality of time spent together matters most. Simple activities like chatting, sharing a meal, or sitting quietly together can strengthen your relationship and show your grandparent that they’re always in your thoughts.
Bring Personal Items to Make Their Space Feel Like Home
Help your grandparent feel more comfortable in their new environment by bringing personal items from home. These could include family photos, favorite books, a beloved blanket, or small trinkets that hold sentimental value.
Decorating their room with these familiar objects creates a cozy and personal space that can provide comfort, trigger positive memories, and reduce feelings of loneliness or disorientation. Involve your grandparent in deciding which items to bring so they feel a sense of ownership over their living space.
Listen and Show Empathy
It’s important to acknowledge that the move to a care home can be a significant change for your grandparent. They may experience feelings of loss, sadness, or frustration. Be patient and empathetic during conversations.
Listen without judgment, and let them express their thoughts and emotions. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel this way and that you’re there to support them through the adjustment. Sometimes, just being a compassionate listener is the best form of support you can offer.
Keep Them Involved in Family Life
One of the biggest challenges for care home residents is feeling disconnected from family life. Make an effort to keep your grandparent in the loop about what’s happening with the family. Share updates on milestones, birthdays, and events, and show them pictures or videos from family gatherings they couldn’t attend.
You can also bring along children’s drawings, letters, or other mementos. Keeping them informed and involved helps them feel connected and reminds them that they remain an integral part of the family.
Encourage Social Interaction and Participation
Many care homes, like a luxury care centre in Telford with Morris Care, offer a variety of social activities, such as bingo, music sessions, and group outings. Encourage your grandparent to participate in these events to help them stay active and engaged. Social interaction is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being and can reduce feelings of isolation. If possible, join them during one of these activities. It’s a great way to share in their day-to-day experiences and show your support for their new social life.
Stay Connected Through Technology
If you’re unable to visit as often as you’d like, use technology to stay connected. Teach your grandparent how to use a tablet or smartphone to video call, or set up a digital photo frame that can be updated remotely with new pictures of family members.
Regular phone calls, emails, or even short video messages can bridge the gap between visits and remind them that you’re always thinking of them. Make sure to choose technology that aligns with their comfort level and abilities.
Celebrate Special Occasions Together
Celebrate birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries with your grandparent, even if it means bringing the celebration to the care home. Decorate their room, bring along a cake, and have a small family gathering.
If your grandparent enjoys specific traditions, try to incorporate them into these celebrations. These special occasions can create new, positive memories and offer a sense of continuity, reinforcing that your grandparent is still very much a part of family traditions and celebrations.
Advocate for Their Needs
Be proactive in ensuring that your grandparent’s needs are being met. Regularly check in with care home staff to discuss any changes in health, mood, or preferences. Don’t hesitate to speak up if you feel your grandparent’s needs are not being adequately addressed. Your involvement can help ensure that they receive the best possible care and feel supported not just by the care home staff but by their family as well.
Supporting a Grandparent: A Shared Family Effort
Supporting a grandparent in a care home is an ongoing effort that requires love, patience, and understanding.
By staying connected, advocating for their needs, and finding meaningful ways to spend time together, you can help them adjust to their new environment while maintaining a strong family bond. Remember, it’s the small gestures of kindness, presence, and support that can have the biggest impact on your grandparent’s well-being and overall happiness.
