Moving is never an easy task - especially for the elderly.
When you're young, moving, while more of a pain in the neck than anything, is generally filled with great expectation and with a sense of adventure.
Sadly, for elders, it generally signifies the end or at least a loss.
When faced with this situation with your elder, don't attempt to make it a cheerful situation.
It's not and your elder will know it.
Make the situation as dignified as possible.
Based on my personal experiences, I offer the following nine tips to help you with their feelings of helplessness, confusion and the anxiety that goes along with moving day.
1.
Spend the day together This will help with the initial period of awkwardness.
Stay for a meal or two and an activity.
2.
Make the introduction between your elder and their roommate.
Don't force anything - just make the introduction.
They will get to know each other on their own terms.
3.
Personalization of your elder's area Bring something from home, such as photos, a chair or rug.
4.
Be sure that the call buzzer can be reach from your elder's bed And that it is functioning correctly.
Be sure your elder knows how and when to use it.
Some nursing home facilities have devices that clip on to clothing for those who have trouble operating the traditional call buzzer.
5.
Introduce your elder to their nurse or nurse's assistant Do your best to stay until the next shift change so that you can make introductions with them as well.
6.
Let your elder know when the next meal will be served Make sure that the kitchen is aware of any diet restrictions or special diets that your elder needs.
7.
Let your elder know when you or another person will be visiting them And by all means, stick to it! Give them a calendar they can look at that shows who will be visiting and when.
8.
Keep an eye out for signs your elder is fatigued or upset Reassure them that the move was the best thing and that anyone, including yourself would be shaken up a bit by such a big move.
9.
Never Lie Never, ever tell your elder that this move is only for a "little bit.
" But also keep in your mind that the first move is really only a trial to ensure that the home you've selected is a good fit.
But never tell your elder they can look forward to returning home again.