Relocating a Loved One to a Care Home? Avoid these Common Mistakes

It isn’t easy moving a loved one to a care home, but when it involves relocating them to a completely different area, things can get even trickier.

From moving day to managing the emotional side of the transition, several common pitfalls can make the process more stressful than it needs to be. But with a little bit of preparation, you can ensure a more supportive move to keep your loved one feeling calm. Read on as we talk about the main considerations for a long-distance care home move and how you can dodge the potential issues that come with it.

Transportation

Book moving companies early to avoid delays and disruption to routines and ensure comfort during the journey. Whether by car or medical transport, make sure essentials like medications and comfort items are easily accessible.

Medical Care Transfers

Ensure all medical records, prescriptions and healthcare plans are transferred to the care home and check in with new GPs and pharmacies in the area beforehand to avoid any gaps in care.

Emotional Preparation

This will be a difficult time for your loved one, but you can help them by explaining the reasons for the move, reassuring them you will always be there for them and involving them in packing personal items that will make them feel better about the transition.

Staying Connected

Plan regular in-person visits, but if you don’t live close, arrange regular phone or video calls to stay connected with your relative after the move. Establish a communication routine with the care home staff to stay updated on how they’re feeling day-to-day after the move.

Visit the New Care Home First

If possible, arrange a visit to the new care home before your loved one moves in. Familiarising yourself with the environment and meeting staff ahead of time can help ease your loved one’s anxiety.

Financial Planning

Long-distance moves might involve additional costs, such as the budget for transportation, potential moving services and any extra care-related expenses.

Social Support After the Move

Coordinate with nearby family or friends who can visit or check in on your loved one regularly, especially in the initial weeks following the move.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

There’s likely a lot on your mind when moving your loved one out of the area and into a new care home, leading you to overlook some important matters. Here’s how to avoid the most frequent pitfalls:

1. Not Researching Local Services in the New Area

Moving to a new location means new access to local services such as hospitals, specialists and community activities. Families often forget to research nearby medical facilities or community support services in the new area.

Ideally, before the move, research the local area and identify nearby healthcare services, emergency centres and fun social activities that enhance your loved one’s well-being.

2. Overlooking Staff Ratios and Specialisation

Care home staff ratios and specialisation can vary greatly, especially between regions. Families may assume all care homes offer the same level of service.

Ensure the care home has enough staff and is fully trained to meet your loved one’s healthcare needs, whether that’s dementia care or mobility support. Visiting the new care home and asking detailed questions can help ensure they meet the required standards.

3. Misunderstanding the Contract and Terms of Care

Many families rush through signing contracts without fully understanding the terms. Hidden costs, unclear responsibilities or fees for additional services can create financial strain later.

Be patient and carefully review the care home’s contract, including costs for optional services and cancellation policies, and seek legal advice to ensure complete clarity.

4. Neglecting Long-Term Planning for Finances

Focusing solely on the immediate costs of the move can lead to financial challenges down the line. Long-distance care moves can be more expensive than expected, and ongoing care costs should also be considered.

Create a long-term financial plan that includes moving expenses, care home fees, medical costs, and transportation for future visits.

5. Overloading Your Loved One on Moving Day

Trying to do everything in one day – packing, travelling and unpacking – can easily overwhelm you and especially your loved one. This is a common mistake that leads to unnecessary stress.

Break the process into smaller steps. Try to pack over a few days and consider arriving a day early to set up the new room so it’s ready when your loved one arrives.

A Smooth Transition Starts with Smart Planning

Moving to a new area is daunting at any age, especially for older adults. But, by knowing the common pitfalls and taking the right steps, you can make the process more effortless and reassuring for everyone involved. So, take your time with the planning, stay engaged after the move, and remember, each step you take now will make the future that much easier.