How to Prepare for the Transition to a Long-Term Care Facility

Moving into a long-term care facility is a major transition that can bring up mixed feelings. It is normal to feel a combination of relief, fear, or sadness, and acknowledging these feelings is the first step to dealing with them calmly. The key is to arm yourself with clear, practical information to make this process easier and more positive.

Step 1: Acknowledge your feelings

It is essential that you accept the mixed feelings that come up during this transition. Don’t avoid what you’re feeling. Talking to a family member, friend, or professional can help you handle it better. Remember that moving into a care home doesn’t mean you’re losing your independence. Instead, you’re gaining security, companionship, specialized care, access to medical personnel, health monitoring and medications, assistance, and an environment designed for your well-being and risk prevention.

Step 2: Learn all you can about your new home

Before moving in, visit the care home to check out the environment and the care provided. Ask about activities, allowed visitors, policies on furniture, and medical care. Also, ask about facility security, operating hours, access to emergency services, medication management, 24-hour personnel, and special dietary options and meals. This will help you feel more confident and make informed decisions.

Step 3: Rally your family’s support

Talk openly with your family about your feelings and needs. Ask them for help packing, selecting personal items, understanding and signing documents, and accompanying you during the move. Having support makes the transition easier and less stressful.

Step 4: Organize your legal and financial documents

Keep your important documents in order to avoid any issues:

• Power of attorney so that someone you trust can make decisions for you
• Advance directives stating your wishes regarding medical treatment
• Clear information on how your household expenses will be covered
• Updated will and testament

Step 5: Make the space yours

Bring items that make you feel at home, such as photographs, books, or your favorite radio. Decorate your room with details you like to create a warm and friendly atmosphere. This will make it easier for you to adapt.

Step 6: Plan your move sensibly

Take an inventory of what you are bringing, including any valuables. Always bring your medications (labeled) and medical devices, such as oxygen machines, with you. If you’re sharing a bathroom, store your products in a toiletry bag that will be easy to handle. The Triple-S a tu lado (SSS a tu lado) program offers in-home support for patients with certain health conditions or who have recently undergone surgery or hospitalization. Specialized personnel will help you with daily tasks that may be difficult, such as light housekeeping, bathing, dressing, and moving around the home. This provider can also help you organize your move, making the process less stressful and more orderly. This service is available to Triple-S Advantage members, with access to up to 120 hours of assistance per year. (https://advantage.grupotriples.com/en/sss-a-tu-lado/)

The transition to a long-term care facility can be a process filled with mixed feelings, but it is also an opportunity to live with greater support and peace of mind. Read up, get organized, and find some support so this move can be a fresh start. Building new relationships and sharing experiences will make this new chapter even more fulfilling.