Moving homes is among one of the top five stresses in life. It’s a disruption in routine, it’s labour intensive, can be costly and is challenging for all involved. Imagine how much more difficult this is for elderly people, with the loss of familiarity and routine, parting with friends, family members and beloved pets. They may have lived half or more of their lives in the same place, so moving into Aged Care Geelong can be a really stressful time for them.
Relocation Stress Syndrome
Relocation Stress Syndrome is the psychological failure to adjust to the changes involved in moving. Leading up to the move if a loved one suffers from relocation stress; they may become irritable or combative. The signs of this may be sleeplessness, poor appetite, confusion, loneliness, anxiety or depression. They may withdraw or isolate themselves and feel unable to focus.
Preventing Relocation Stress
- Keep your loved ones involved in the decision making process, so they feel empowered and involved.
- Create a homely environment in their new home with some furniture from home and photos and special artefact’s.
- Initiate and support new relationships and friendships in Aged Care Geelong, and encourage involvement in community activities in the home to help forge new relationships.
- Acknowledge fears and feelings genuinely. It’s important your loved one feels included, listened to and importantly understood.
- Rent a storage unit if some items are difficult to part with.
- Find a new doctor ahead of time, if because of the relocation, the current doctor will be too far. Elderly people tend to visit the Doctor’s regularly, so it’s a good idea to prepare ahead if they will need a new Dr or specialist who may also be able to visit them in Aged Care Geelong.
- Hire professional movers, don’t try to do it yourself.
- Contact family members to help well in advance!
- Familiarise yourself with the amenities and activities offered in the Age Care home before your loved one moves in, so you can start discussing them with your loved one well before the move.
- Visit as often as you can when your parent first moves in, as it will help to reduce any anxiety and will help to ease them into their new Aged Care Geelong home.
Even if you just tick a few of the above points, it will assist with the transition over time.
If you would like to take a tour of one of our Aged Care Geelong homes, or one of our homes in seven locations in Melbourne, please contact us here or phone us on 1300 104 663.
