Even when your elderly loved one intends to live independently or live with you for as long they can, at any moment it is possible that a health crisis could arise that makes this impossible. This is a huge reason why it is important for us all to plan our finances carefully to allow for the possibility of spending time in an assisted living facility or nursing home. If your loved one has found him or herself in this situation, we hope that today’s blog post will give you the information you need to make the transition as smooth as possible.
- Keep in mind, and gently ask them to remember, that transitions always take time. If they are unhappy at first, they should not immediately give up on making it work.
Many people who hate their first week or two in a nursing home grow to truly love it within a few months. Getting settled and making friends are two things that greatly contribute to happiness, and take a bit of time. Try not to jump to conclusions if things seem to be going poorly at first, and don’t make any drastic decisions – like moving to a different place instead – before giving it a fair shot.
- Visit often, and encourage their other loved ones to do the same.
It’s important for those in nursing homes to have plenty of contact with the outside world. Visits from friends and family are great sources of joy. But don’t carry all that responsibility on your shoulders alone. Life happens and as much as you may want to visit every single day, that’s just not always possible. Make sure their other loved ones know where they are and how much they would enjoy a visit.
- Make it feel like home.
A little effort in decoration can go a long way for coziness. Treasured possessions from home can make your loved one more comfortable. A special quilt on the bed, photos of family on the walls, and a favorite knick-knack and book on the bedside table can take a room from clinical and bland to warm and cozy.
Remember, you are your loved one’s advocate when they live in a nursing home. If you need legal guidance in advocating for them or want help planning financially for this eventuality, the team at The Amsberry Law Firm is here for you. We have extensive experience in elder law and would love to partner with you. Contact us today to learn more!
Attorney Russell J.G. Amsberry
Attorney Russell J.G. Amsberry founded the Amsberry Law Firm in 1995 with the goal of providing clients with exceptional, focused representation on their issues. His success as a legal advocate has been reflected in the numerous professional honors he has received, such as speaking engagements and inclusion in Scene in SA magazine’s listing of the best lawyers in San Antonio, a Distinguished rating from Martindale-Hubble, and an amazing rating from Avvo. [ Attorney Bio ]
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