How to stay connected with a loved one in a nursing home

When the day finally comes to move a loved one into a nursing home, it can be a stressful time for everyone involved. Often neither parties really want it to happen. They do not want to go into a home, and you feel guilty putting them in one. Although you know it is the right decision, it can still be painful.

One of the reasons it can feel especially painful is the unknown factors involved. Although you have done the research and have chosen the best home in your opinion, you still have some doubts. Everyone has seen the stories on the news about the abuse that happens in nursing homes across the country. (If you suspect or have knowledge of this happening, please make sure you seek elder abuse legal help).

A great way to put you at ease is to make sure that you do everything possible to ensure that you and your loved one can stay connected, in today’s digital age, there is no excuse for staying out of contact. In this article, we are going to give you some pointers on how to help you and your loved ones stay connected.

Technology

The easiest way to keep connected with someone in this day and age is through technology. This applies to those who are in nursing homes too. Our advice, if you are considering moving someone into a home, is to try and teach them how to work a tablet or laptop.

There are thousands of courses available nowadays, many of which are free that are aimed at teaching computer skills to people with no computer knowledge. Many elderly people love the challenge of learning something new, and with this knowledge comes the ability to stay connected to family and friends.

If you are planning to move someone into a home who does not agree with the decision, then it could be a nice gesture to buy them a tablet or a laptop with a webcam and show them how to use it.

Nowadays, we all live busy lives. Sometimes things come up, and we are unable to visit our loved ones in nursing homes as much as we should. If you have already shown them how to use their tablet or laptop before they have gone into the home, you can easily arrange for a skype call or video chat. This means that even if you cannot make it for a visit on time, they still get to see your face and hear your voice.

Being moved into a nursing home can be scary, frightening, and stressful for everybody involved. Make sure you consider your loved one's emotions during this particularly stressful period. If you are moving them into a home to make both yours and their life easier, remember that they will probably not see it that way. A little bit of work helping them stay connected can make the transition easier for everyone. So buy them an iPad and show them how to use it, both of you will quickly reap the rewards.