Visiting a nursing home can be difficult for many people because they do not like seeing their loved one in poor health or weaker than they are used to seeing them. If you have a loved one whose health is failing and want to take your children to see them in the nursing home, it is important to properly prepare them for what they may see and hear. Use the guide that follows to learn a few tips for preparing your little ones for a visit to a nursing home.
Explain What the Nursing Home Is
The first thing you need to do is explain to your children what a nursing home is and why their loved one is in it. This will help them to understand that the people living in a nursing home need help and special attention. This will make it easier for them to understand why someone constantly checks on your loved one.
Explain That Some Residents May Be Confused
As people age, there are times when their mental capability starts to diminish because of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. When this happens, some elderly individuals identify someone as being someone that they are not. Explain to your children what they could come across while they are at the nursing home can help them to keep from getting confused or feel more comfortable with the situation.
Explain Your Loved One's Condition
Next, take the time to explain to your children the current condition of your loved one. You need to be sure that they know what to expect when they walk into the room. They should know if your loved one is on any machines, if they will be awake, and if they are coherent. If your loved one is not able to decipher who each respondent is, explaining why this may happen to your children can help them be able to enjoy the time that they get to spend with your loved one.
When you take your children to the nursing home, be sure that you do not stay at the home for too long. The experience will be a bit overwhelming for your child, and limiting the amount of time that you are there may help your child be able to better cope with the situation. Getting to spend time with their loved one before they pass away could mean a lot to your children.
If you are looking for a memory care facility for a loved one, visit Valley View Retirement Community.
Share3 November 2015
My mother had been living with my family for about four years before her health got so bad that I couldn't keep her in my home any longer. At that point, I really had no choice but to find a comfortable nursing home for her to move into. This wasn't an easy decision for me to make, but it was the only thing I could do to ensure she was getting the best care possible during her final days. I was pleased to find a wonderful nursing home that provided her with amenities that she could enjoy and a caring staff that would care for her. If you are second-thinking taking your loved one to a nursing home, stop and read my blog where you will find out how much good it can do for your loved one and yourself.
