In the second of this two-part series, experts guide us through the settling-in process that follows when a care home has been chosen
Once you’ve settled on the care home that ticks all the boxes for your loved one, and feel confident they’ll be happy and well cared for, it’s time to start considering the transition process. By knowing what to expect from the care home team, every aspect of this change can run as smoothly as possible.
Once again, we’ve talked to some of our area’s specialists to get their advice and tips – big and small – on how to help your relative feel welcomed, looked after and truly at home from day one.
What can I do to help with the transition process?
As all our experts agree, families play a vital role during that initial settling-in process – and beforehand, too. A good care home will be keen to get involved well before the move takes place, on hand to answer questions and provide practical advice so that everyone, including the new resident, feels comfortable with what’s happening.
It all starts with communication and preparation. “Talking openly and positively about the move beforehand can help to reduce anxiety, especially if the person feels involved in the decision,” says Jo Molloy-Cruden, customer relations manager at Heathlands House.
Getting to know the care home well can be very reassuring, adds Yvonne Quigley, customer relations manager at The Cambridgeshire Care Home. “We encourage families and their loved ones to spend time with us before moving in – whether for lunch, an activity or a relaxed visit for tea and cake.”
Small, thoughtful details shared by families such as wake-up times or hobbies can make all the difference. “This kind of
information helps the care team build a more complete picture of each person, allowing support to feel familiar from the very beginning,” explains Claudia Toscano, customer relations manager at Woodlands Care Centre.
Families should also think about which familiar items their relation would like to have with them, say our experts. This might be a favourite chair, ornaments, photographs or even a well-loved scent.
“Emotional reassurance is important too,” adds Jo. “Letting your loved one know that the move doesn’t mean they
are being ‘left’ or forgotten, and that family involvement will continue.”
Do care homes generally offer any extra support during this time?
Care homes put in lots of work behind the scenes to ensure the settling-in period goes smoothly, so families can expect to feel well supported at every point.
For example, they will often be assigned a named carer, whose role is to get to know the resident in detail, explains Jo. “This person takes responsibility for getting to know the resident’s routines, preferences, life history and emotional needs, helping to ensure continuity and personalised care.” They’ll also keep an eye on how the new resident is adjusting and liaise with the family to share updates.
Families themselves will still be very present in this new phase of their loved ones’ lives, with the blessing of the care home. “We share our weekly activity programme with families so that they can encourage involvement and enjoy meaningful conversations together,” explains Yvonne.
“Families are being encouraged to remain involved while the care team gently supports the resident in building confidence and familiarity in their new environment,” says Claudia.
Is there a suggested visiting routine?
A balanced and consistent visiting routine is hugely valuable, especially during these early weeks. But there is also a balance to be struck, and care homes may suggest that visits are short to start with. “This helps avoid overwhelming a new resident or making goodbyes emotionally difficult, which can unsettle them,” says Jo.
Careful timing is important, agrees Claudia. “While regular visits provide reassurance, it’s also important to allow space for residents to engage with daily life in the home, form relationships and take part in activities,” she says.
It’s not just residents who benefit. Care for the carer matters, too, particularly those who have been looking after their family member on a long-term, full-time basis. “We gently encourage taking regular breaks,” says Yvonne. “Once a loved one is in our care, it supports a better quality of life for both the resident and their family.”
How should I communicate with the care home?
“Sharing information openly is vital,” stresses Jo. Communication should be regular, clear and two-way, so important information – from a resident’s likes and dislikes to updating information on next of kin or powers of attorney – is shared.
With plenty of opportunities to pass on feedback, families are encouraged to flag concerns promptly. “We hold regular resident and family meetings to review care, preferences and wellbeing, and keep everyone updated about changes, activities and upcoming events, so families feel informed and reassured,” says Yvonne.
While all staff members should welcome regular conversations, building a strong relationship with an individual can be helpful, adds Claudia. “Establishing a key point of contact can help create consistency and clarity, giving families confidence their loved one’s wellbeing is the central focus at all times.”
