Making the Transition to Nursing Facility Life
Coping with the Transition

For the person who is about to enter a nursing facility, and for caring family and friends, the days just before and during the move can be traumatic. Anticipation, fear and guilt -- often combined with illness or the recent loss of a loved one -- mean that the individual faces the future with fear and doubt.

This is not unusual. With love, understanding, help and planning, the uncertainty of entering and adjusting to life in a nursing facility can be greatly minimized.

Planning Ahead

Though not always possible, the involvement of the resident in selecting a nursing facility can make a critical difference in the final adjustment. If able, the resident should have input into choosing a nursing facility that fits the resident's personal style of living.

The resident also should have the opportunity to speak with the admissions director or administrator. The resident may have questions regarding care that family members may not be able to answer.

As far in advance as you can, begin planning for the move. To the extent possible, plan the move with the help and participation of the resident. Remember, the professionally trained staff understands your concerns and is eager to help you make this period as calm and positive as possible.

Tell The Facility About The Resident

Your family physician can provide the nursing facility with much of this information. The more they know, the better they can help the resident adjust to daily life in the facility. Provide them with written details about individual habits and practices. Include information about:

  • Diet
    • Is the resident a good eater?
    • Does the resident have any dietary restrictions: religious, medical or allergy-related?
    • At what times is the resident used to eating, and how much does he or she eat?
    • What about likes and dislikes?
  • Mobility
    • To what extent can the resident get around independently?
    • Does the resident need help because of poor eyesight?
    • Will he or she accept help from a staff person or resent it?
  • Personal Care
    • To how much privacy is the resident accustomed?
    • What types of activities can the resident perform independently?
    • Can the resident manage personal bathing and grooming?
    • Up to now, has the resident preferred a bath or a shower?
  • Living Conditions
    • What was it like where the resident used to live?
    • Did the resident share a room or bathroom?
    • Has the resident always prepared his or her own meals?
    • Does the resident like eating with others?
    • Is the resident concerned about having a roommate?
    • What, if any, habits should we know about that might help in finding a compatible roommate?
  • Mental State
    • Does the resident become fearful in strange surroundings or at night?
    • Is the resident always aware of who he or she is, where he or she is, or what day it is?
  • Religion
    • Is religion an important part of the resident's life?
    • Does the resident usually attend religious services?
    • Does the resident want to continue attending religious services?
    • Will a particular clergy member come to visit?
    • Would the resident welcome or be hesitant of a visit by a new clergy member?
  • Habits and Practices
    • Does the resident smoke or drink?
    • Does the resident have a set routine that involves activities that are enjoyed and anticipated, such as watching a particular television show, going for a walk after breakfast or reading a particular newspaper?
  • Special Interests
    • How does the resident currently keep busy?
    • Does the resident have any hobbies?
    • Does the resident enjoy membership in clubs and social groups?
    • Does the resident have a special interest in sports, music, arts and crafts or gardening?

While some changes in lifestyle are going to be necessary, facility staff will do their best to help the resident to maintain a particular custom, practice or reassuring habit.

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