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Making the Transition to a Nursing Home

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Placing a loved one into a nursing home will affect your entire family. There may be a period of adjustment for not only the person entering the facility but their family members as well. There is generally a social services coordinator available to help with the transition period in a nursing home.

Support from family members will make this transition much easier. Also, frequent visits from friends and family will help the resident feel they have not been abandoned. Family members who are unable to visit on a regular basis can send cards, letters, and photos.

Take personal items for the room that will make your loved one feel more at home, such as photographs, bedspread, favorite chair, and books. Continue magazine subscriptions that your loved ones enjoy reading. Take favored clothing items and clothing that they will be comfortable wearing in the nursing home.

Encourage your loved one to take part in the activities offered by the nursing home. Ask about religious services your loved one can attend. Also you should encourage your family member to get to know the other residents.

If your family member suffers from dementia, it is recommended that they not have visitors until they have adjusted to a routine. Prepare their room so it will feel like home before they arrive at the nursing home.

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