Deciding on a residential option for our elderly loved ones is not an easy task. Naturally, we want what’s best for them. But this involves a variety of factors, depending on one’s preferences. Through the years, Homestyle Aged Care has been on top of the list in Melbourne and aged care in Geelong also as they provide premium residential services for seniors.
Naturally, every transition will be difficult for our senior relatives. Some are scared about the idea of living away from the family. Others are intimidated by the fact that it will be a totally different environment with a whole new set of people they need to get along with. Such concerns are a natural part of the process.
To address this, it is crucial to have conversations that will acknowledge and answer all of their doubts and concerns. Such discussions need not be done in one sitting. So be patient and take the time to reassure them that you have their best interests in mind.
In fact, it will be a lot better if they will be a part of the process as you choose the best and most appropriate senior residential home for them. If they participate in the research process, our older loved ones can give their inputs and preferences early on. This will ensure that they have buy-in from the beginning on the final choice.
So what should you look for in an aged care nursing home? Here are some ideas:
Home away from home
The first thing you must look for is the ambience and general feel of the home. What kind of feelings does the facility evoke? Is it a place where your parents, grandparents, or relatives will feel comfortable living in? Does it feel like a home or a hospital?
While others think this is not as important as other factors such as facilities or emergency health services, we disagree. You want one that will provide the best quality of life for your loved ones. They must feel like they will feel at home not only with the area but with the staff and other residents as well. For sure, you want them to still thrive even in their twilight years.
Quality activities
Another area that you need to be mindful of is the activity list for residents in the home. You know your loved ones best, and you will be able to determine if the roster of activities is suitable for them.
This does not mean that you will only choose a facility that will conform to their lifestyle one hundred per cent. What this only means is that the home has options that you believe your loved ones can enjoy participating in.
Relaxing environment
Another crucial factor is the area where the home is situated. Is it in a safe and quiet neighbourhood that s/he feels comfortable in? Is there enough space for outdoor walking and exercise? Are there plants, flowers, and trees around?
There have been many studies that have shown that being around nature helps people cope with their stress and anxiety. This is also true for the elderly. Obviously, having fewer worries is good for their health.
In addition, you must check the rooms, common areas, and toilets. Are they too small and cramped? Are they clean and well-maintained? These reflect how a home manages everything, so be sure to be mindful of these seemingly trivial things.
Caring and well-trained staff
Everyone can say that they have the best staff in the world. But you must not take their word at face value. Remember, you will entrust your loved ones to these strangers.
One way to know how they really are is to go check the facility yourself. Do they seem warm and sincere when they talk to you and your senior relatives? When you ask them, do they answer with enough care and knowledge about the elderly? Do you and your parents or grandparents feel comfortable with them? What does your gut say?
Personnel is among the biggest factors in your decision. You want to make sure the staff are competent and trustworthy.
Adequate emergency response team
This is also important. We know for a fact that the older one gets, the more health complications arise. So you want a facility that will be able to take care of your senior loved ones during emergencies.
You may want to ask what their health protocols are. Also, check if they have round-the-clock health care professionals who can respond immediately to patients. It would also help if you can find out if their personnel are trained in first aid and other health interventions.
Another serious consideration is the availability of an ambulance or the proximity of a hospital in the area.
Conclusion
An aged care facility is your partner in providing the best residential experience for your elderly loved ones. As you help them transition to their new home, it would be a reassuring gesture if you have already ensured that their new home has a relaxing, comfortable, and safe environment. Doing diligent research is a way of showing them that you love them and care about how they will adjust to their new home. The task may seem daunting at first, but in the end, it will all be worth it.
When they know that you have chosen a reputable facility that ticks all the right boxes like Homestyle Aged Care, they will be at peace in their new home.
