One of the most common concerns when moving into a nursing home is a fear of loneliness.
Thankfully, for the vast majority, this fear is usually unfounded. Unfortunately, however, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has meant that many care home residents across the country are currently experiencing feelings of isolation.
If you’ve been unable to visit a loved one regularly (or at all), you may be considering moving them out of their nursing home and into your home. In this post, we explain why that might not be the best idea.
A Note from Fulford: The rules around visiting care homes are changing all the time. We recommend bookmarking the government’s guidance and keeping an eye out for updates.
Why Should You Keep Your Loved One In Their Current Nursing Home?
There’s no denying that this is a challenging and frightening time. Being apart from your relative for prolonged periods is always tough, but when you factor in the inability to hug them or hold their hand, it just adds to the stress and emotion.
All of this combined might make you think about removing your loved one from their nursing home and bringing them to live with you. However, this isn’t always advisable, no matter how noble your intentions. Here’s why:
- If you live elsewhere, in another part of the country, moving away can be unsettling. Depending on how long your loved one has lived there, there’s a good chance the nursing home is now their home. It’s familiar; it’s comfortable; it’s where their friends are.
This is especially true if you spent time making the move from home to the nursing home a smooth one. Taking them away from the little things they’ve grown accustomed to, like the local newspaper or clubs and activities, can often cause short-term anxiety. - There’s a reason you or your loved one chose nursing home care. And it’s unlikely that reason has changed in the time since. Perhaps you found juggling full-time work and being a carer draining. Or maybe your home isn’t equipped to handle the needs of your loved one (i.e., ground-floor living, large bathroom, hoists and other apparatus).
Even during this trying time, a nursing home is still the best place for your loved one to receive the care they require.
Rest assured that the staff here at Fulford are taking every precaution in caring for your relative. We’re adhering to all COVID protocols, we’re wearing masks and PPE when interacting with residents and staff, and we’re tested regularly.
Whether You Live Near or Far, Remember, The World Is Shrinking
We know there’s no substitute for physical contact, but thanks to modern technology, the world is shrinking. Through FaceTime, WhatsApp, and other video call apps and platforms, you can at least see and speak to your loved one frequently. Our staff are always on hand to help residents get to grips with tablets and smartphones to help make this a reality.
Beyond that, we’re now, thankfully, getting to a point where nominated visitors can come and take residents out for the day. If you happen to live far away (in another town, city, or country), this can give you peace of mind that your loved one isn’t cooped up all day, every day.
And there are several local befriending services where volunteers correspond with and visit nursing home residents, often accompanying them on day trips or organised activities. More information can be found at AGE UK.
Note: The government’s guidance regarding visits where the resident leaves the care home premises is being updated regularly. Bookmark this page to stay in the loop.
When Should I Move My Loved One From Their Nursing Home?
Although we encourage you to keep your loved one in their nursing home, there are times when this just isn’t beneficial – for them or you.
In particular, if you live in another town or city and you’re their only visitor, you may wish to move them nearer to see them more regularly. In this case, it’s often easier to transfer from one nursing home to another close-by rather than moving your loved one into your home. That way, you can be sure they’ll continue to receive the care they need in a professional setting.
If You’re Worried, We’re Here to Help
Sometimes, all you need is a little reassurance that your loved one is in safe hands. If they’re currently a Fulford resident and you’re worried about them, give us a call, and we’ll do our best to put your mind at ease.
And if you’d like to learn more about Fulford Nursing Home or arrange a visit, please contact us on 01904 654 269. We’re ready to listen and happy to help.