When the signs that it’s time to move your loved one into a nursing home become too great to ignore, it can prompt a lot of fear and anxiety on both sides.
Many elderly people worry that they’ll be lonely or forgotten in an unfamiliar environment. Meanwhile, those who have cared for them up until now are often concerned about the level and standard of care their loved one will receive.
It’s not uncommon for these fears to delay the decision to move. So, in this short blog post, we aim to address these concerns head-on and smooth the way towards a better quality of life for all involved.
5 Common Nursing Home Fears Dispelled
1. “I’ll be bored and lonely”
The number one concern for many prospective residents, they fear that moving into a nursing home means being shut away and left to their own devices. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Think about your current situation. If you’re caring for a loved one, your time with them will predominantly be spent meeting their needs (cooking, cleaning, dressing, toileting, etc.). When they move to a nursing home, these tasks are taken care of already, meaning you get to spend quality time with them, and not just around them.
Beyond that fact, most nursing homes run year-round social calendars for residents. Your loved one will have plenty of opportunities to interact with fellow residents and staff members, forging new friendships and trying new things. Just take a look at the 20+ social activities enjoyed by our nursing home residents.
2. “I’ve become a burden”
It’s common for elderly people to confuse the suggestion of a nursing home with the idea that they’ve somehow become a burden. It’s a horrible feeling, which is what makes the conversation such an emotional one.
That’s why it’s so important that you let them know that it’s a decision made out of love. It’s because you care that you want them to enjoy a better quality of life under the watchful eye of professionals.
3. “My independence is gone”
Another frightening thought is that moving into a nursing home means being unable to make decisions; that their daily lives will be controlled, morning, noon, and night.
Again, this is understandable, but not altogether true. Yes, certain aspects of their lives will be different, owing to the circumstances, but residents are still encouraged to live as independently as possible. They can pursue hobbies, learn new skills, enjoy day trips, and much more.
4. “I’ll get sick faster”
Often, the decision to move a loved one into a nursing home is linked to their health. If they’ve been used to receiving one-to-one care at home, they may worry that sharing the attention of nursing staff with several other residents will mean they’ll be overlooked.
Yet this is another concern that’s easily quelled. Nursing homes are designed to provide 24/7 care, and everything is carefully coordinated to ensure that everyone receives the attention they require.
And when you’re visiting a nursing home for the first time, it’s often a good idea to ask about the staff-to-resident ratio. This should help set your loved one’s mind at ease.
5. “I can’t afford it”
Finally, a universal cause of anxiety: Money. Many prospective residents fear that they simply won’t be able to afford the nursing home’s fees, or that they’ll be a drain on their loved one’s finances.
However, nursing home care in the UK is means tested, meaning if they don’t meet the threshold for self-funding (currently set at £23,250 in England), they will be eligible for support. Their local authority can pay some or all of the associated costs, funding up to roughly £742 per week.
Read More: How much does living in a nursing home cost?
Here to Help, Ready to Listen
There’s no denying that moving into a nursing home can be scary, stressful, and emotional. The fear of the unknown can weigh heavy. But many of the concerns listed above are quickly overcome the moment your loved one sees the home and meets the staff and residents.
Rest assured, they’ll be made welcome and comfortable, and they’ll soon adjust to a new way of living.
If you’d like to learn more about Fulford Nursing Home, please contact us on 01904 654 269. We’re ready to listen and happy to help.